Medical connector

ABSTRACT

A medical connector for use in a fluid pathway. A valve member with sealing rings helps preclude undesired accumulation of fluid within the connector. A branched connector includes a fluid diverter extending away from a port of the branched connector. The fluid diverter is configured to divert fluid flowing through the branched connector and into a medical connector attached thereto, flushing a distal portion of the medical connector.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claimis identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the presentapplication, are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. Thepresent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/793,511, filed Mar. 15, 2013, and entitled “MEDICALCONNECTOR”; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/884,913, filedSep. 30, 2013, and entitled “MEDICAL CONNECTOR”; and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 61/914,680, filed Dec. 11, 2013, and entitled“MEDICAL CONNECTOR,” the entire disclosure of each being herebyincorporated by reference herein and made a part of this disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Disclosure

The present disclosure relates in general to the field of medicalconnectors, and in particular to selectively sealed medical connectors.

Description of the Related Art

A variety of devices and techniques exist for the manipulation of fluidsin hospitals and medical settings, and in particular the selectivefacilitation of fluid movement to or from patients. Fluid flow linesrely on a variety of connectors to help develop preferred flowcharacteristics or access points.

Current fluid flow systems and medical connectors have variouslimitations and disadvantages and a need exists for further improvement.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A variety of fluid flow lines and systems are used in hospitals andmedical settings for the selective facilitation of fluid movement to orfrom patients. For example, central venous catheters can be used toadminister IV fluids, various medications or blood products, and/orparenteral nutrition. Because such flow lines provide access to apatient's blood stream, they inherently generate risks of blood streaminfections, as pathogens can make their way into the fluid flow lines atdifferent access points. Generally, risks of infection or othercomplications can be minimized by limiting the number of times that flowlines need to be established, which limits the opportunities forpathogens to enter the system. Risks of infection can also be minimizedby eliminating residual blood in a fluid flow line.

Various embodiments described herein provide techniques and devices thatcan be used to minimize the risk of infection or other complications.For example, in some fluid flow lines branched connectors, such as threeor four-port stopcocks, y-sites, and other ports can be used to provideaccess to the flow line. Access can be used, for example, to withdrawsamples or introduce medicine or other products. Blood can accumulate inports when they are not in use, and the ports can clot and causeproblems in the line, requiring it to be reestablished. Variousembodiments described herein allow for flushing of stopcock ports,helping prevent accumulated fluid. In some embodiments, flushing can beachieved with a fluid diverter, which can divert fluid flow into a portof the stopcock beyond a base of the port. In some embodiments, fluidcan be directed to a distal portion of the port.

Various embodiments described herein relate to needleless connectors andvalves that can also help prevent risks of infection or the need toreestablish fluid flow lines. For example, some needleless connectorsdescribed herein can have minimal internal or priming volumes, makingthem easier and more efficient to flush. Some embodiments of needlelessconnectors described herein can have elements designed to preventaccumulation of blood during and after the connector is used to accessthe fluid flow line.

Additionally, when working with a fluid flow line to selectivelyfacilitate flow of fluid to or from a patient, it can be desirable tomonitor hemodynamic status. Various embodiments described herein canallow for effective monitoring of hemodynamic status.

In various embodiments, a three-way stopcock adapted for flushing aneedleless connector on one port of the stopcock can include a stopcockbody having a first port, a second port, a third port, and a connectingregion connecting the first port, the second port, and the third port.The third port can be positioned between first and second ports.

The stopcock can also include a fluid director positioned at leastpartially within the connecting region. The fluid director can beconfigured to selectively place one or more of the first port, thesecond port, and the third port in fluid communication with another ofthe first port, the second port, and/or the third port. The stopcock canalso include a fluid diverter extending away from the connecting regionat the third port and having a proximal end and a distal end positionedfurther from the third port than the proximal end. The stopcock can alsoinclude a needleless connector attached to the third port and at leastpartially surrounding the fluid diverter.

The needleless connector can have a connector housing and a compressibleseal positioned at least partially within the connector housing andhaving an interior cavity and a slit on a top of the seal that extendsthrough the top and into the interior cavity. In some embodiments, theneedleless connector can also have an internal projection memberpositioned at least partially within the compressible seal, the internalprojection member having walls that define an internal cavity thatencompasses the fluid diverter, an opening at a proximal end of theinternal projection member, an interior height from the opening to amost distal surface of the walls that define the internal cavity, and atleast one distal opening at or near a distal end of the internalprojection member, the at least one distal opening having a proximalsurface. In some embodiments, the at least one distal opening can alsohave a distal surface. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter and theinternal projection member can be integrally formed.

In some embodiments, the fluid diverter is adjacent the walls of theinternal cavity of the internal projection member to substantiallybifurcate the internal cavity of the internal projection member at theproximal end of the internal projection member. In some embodiments, thefluid diverter bifurcates the internal cavity of the internal projectionmember at the proximal end of the internal projection member.

In some embodiments, the fluid diverter substantially bifurcates atleast about half of the internal cavity of the internal projectionmember. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter substantially bifurcatesat least about three quarters of the internal cavity of the internalprojection member. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter can have adistal tip that extends within the internal projection member to atleast the proximal surface of the at least one distal opening.

In some embodiments, the compressible seal can have a plurality ofsealing rings on an interior surface thereof, and the plurality ofsealing rings can be configured to contact and seal against the internalprojection member. In some embodiments, at least one sealing ring of theplurality of sealing rings can contact the internal projection memberabove the at least one distal opening, and at least one sealing ring ofthe plurality of sealing rings can contact the internal projectionmember below the at least one distal opening.

In some embodiments, a height of the internal projection member from thedistal surface of the at least one distal opening to an upper tip of theinternal projection member can be greater than or equal to a height inthe cavity of the compressible seal from an uppermost sealing ring to anuppermost surface of the cavity.

In various embodiments, a multi-port branched medical connector adaptedfor flushing a needleless connector on one port of the branchedconnector can include a body having a first port, a second port, a thirdport, and a connecting region connecting the first port, the secondport, and the third port, wherein the third port is positioned betweenthe first and second ports. The connector can include a fluid diverterextending away from the connecting region at the third port and having aproximal end and a distal end positioned further from the third portthan the proximal end.

The branched medical connector can also include a needleless connectorattached to the third port and at least partially surrounding the fluiddiverter. The needleless connector can have a connector housing, acompressible seal positioned at least partially within the connectorhousing and having an interior cavity and a slit on a top of the sealthat extends through the top and into the interior cavity. In someembodiments, the connector can also include an internal projectionmember positioned at least partially within the compressible seal, theinternal projection member having walls that define an internal cavitythat encompasses the fluid diverter, an opening at a proximal end of theinternal projection member, and at least one distal opening at a distalend of the internal projection member. In some embodiments, the at leastone distal opening includes a proximal surface and a distal surface. Insome embodiments the fluid diverter extends from the proximal end of theinternal projection member to at least the proximal surface of the atleast one distal opening.

In some embodiments, the fluid diverter can extend from the proximal endof the internal projection member to a position past the proximalsurface of the at least one distal opening. In some embodiments, thefluid diverter can substantially bifurcate at least half of the internalprojection member. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter cansubstantially bifurcate at least three quarters of the internalprojection member. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter and theinternal projection member can be integrally molded.

In some embodiments, the compressible seal can have a plurality ofsealing rings on an interior surface thereof, the plurality of sealingrings configured to contact and seal against the internal projectionmember. In some embodiments, at least one sealing ring of the pluralityof sealing rings contacts the internal projection member above the atleast one distal opening and at least one sealing ring of the pluralityof sealing rings contacts the internal projection member below the atleast one distal opening. In some embodiments, a height of the internalprojection member from the distal surface of the at least one distalopening to an upper tip of the internal projection member is greaterthan or equal to a height in the cavity of the compressible seal from anuppermost sealing ring to an uppermost surface of the interior cavity.

In some embodiments, a system for accessing a fluid flow path with amedical connector that can be flushed with fluid includes a stopcockhousing having a first port, a second port, a third port, and aconnecting region connecting the first port, the second port, and thethird port. A fluid diverter can extend away from the connecting regionat the third port and have a proximal end and a distal end positionedfurther from the third port than the proximal end. The fluid divertercan also have a proximal tip at its proximal end and a distal tip at itsdistal end.

The system can also include a first line connected to the first port andconfigured to fluidly communicate with a patient, a second lineconnected to the second port and configured to fluidly communicate witha fluid source, and a medical connector attached to the third port andat least partially surrounding the fluid diverter, the medical connectorhaving a height from the proximal tip of the fluid diverter to a topsurface of the medical connector. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can be integrally molded with a portion of the medicalconnector.

In some embodiments, the distal tip of the fluid diverter extends intothe distal two thirds of the height of the medical connector. In someembodiments, the distal tip of the fluid diverter extends into thedistal one half of the height of the medical connector. In someembodiments, the distal tip of the fluid diverter extends into thedistal one quarter of the height of the medical connector. In someembodiments, the system can also include a syringe positioned in-linebetween the second port and a fluid source.

In some embodiments, a method for withdrawing a blood sample from afluid line delivering fluid from a fluid source to a patient caninclude: blocking a flow of fluid between a fluid source and a stopcockpositioned in the fluid line between a patient and the fluid source, thestopcock including a first port connected to the patient, a second portconnected to the fluid source, and a third port that has a needlelessconnector encompassing a fluid diverter that substantially bifurcates atleast about half of the needleless connector, wherein the stopcock is ina first position in which the first, second, and third ports are influid communication with each other; priming the stopcock with blood;moving the stopcock to a second position wherein the second port isfluidly block from the first and third ports; withdrawing blood throughthe needleless connector; moving the stopcock to the first position; andopening the flow of fluid between the fluid source and the stopcock,wherein opening the flow of fluid flushes the blood in the stopcock withfluid from the fluid source.

In some embodiments, an access connector for a fluid line can include ahousing, an internal projection member, and a seal. The connector canselectively prevent fluid flow therethrough. In some embodiments, theseal can be compressed to facilitate fluid flow to the distal end of thehousing.

In some embodiments, a multi-port branched medical connector adapted forflushing a needleless connector on one port of the branched connectorcan include a body comprising a first port, a second port, a third port,wherein the third port is positioned between the first and second ports,a fluid diverter extending into the third port, and a needlelessconnector attached to the third port and at least partially surroundingthe fluid diverter. The needleless connector can include a connectorhousing having a proximal end and a distal end. The connector can alsoinclude a resilient member positioned at least partially within theconnector housing and configured to impede flow through the distal endwhen in a first position. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter canextend into the resilient member a substantial distance. In someembodiments, the needleless connector when at least partiallysurrounding the fluid diverter has a flushable volume that is less thanapproximately 0.02 milliliters. In some embodiments, the flushablevolume is between approximately 0.01 milliliters and approximately 0.02milliliters. In some embodiments, the flushable volume is approximately0.015 milliliters.

In some embodiments, a multi-port branched medical connector adapted forflushing a needleless connector on one port of the branched connectorcan include a body comprising a first port, a second port, a third port,and a connecting region connecting the first port, the second port, andthe third port, wherein the third port is positioned between the firstand second ports. In some embodiments, a fluid director can bepositioned at least partially within the connecting region andconfigured to selectively place one or more of the first port, thesecond port, and the third port in fluid communication with another ofthe first port, the second port, and the third port. The fluid directorcan include a fluid flow guide with an opening. In some embodiments afluid diverter can extend away from the connecting region at the thirdport and can have a proximal end and a distal end positioned furtherfrom the third port than the proximal end. A medical connector attachedto the third port can at least partially surrounding the fluid diverter.In some embodiments, when the first port, the second port, and the thirdport are in fluid communication with each other and a fluid flows fromthe first port to the second port, the fluid flow guide can beconfigured to direct a first portion of the fluid flow into the thirdport and allow a second portion of the fluid flow to pass through theopening to the second port. In some embodiments, the opening can be anotch.

In various embodiments, a needleless medical connector can include aconnector housing and an internal projection member positioned at leastpartially within the connector housing, the internal projection memberhaving walls that define an internal cavity, at least one proximalopening at a proximal end of the internal projection member, and atleast one distal opening at a distal end of the internal projectionmember, the at least one distal opening having a proximal surface and adistal surface and a height therebetween. The needleless medicalconnector can also include a compressible seal positioned at leastpartially within the connector housing, the compressible seal includinga body wall that defines an interior cavity and that has an innersurface surrounding at least part of the internal projection member, anupper section positioned above the distal surface of the at least onedistal opening of the internal projection member, and a slit on a top ofthe seal that extends through the top of the seal and into the interiorcavity.

In some embodiments, the upper section of the compressible seal can havean interference fit with the internal projection member. In someembodiments, a width of a segment of the internal projection member atits distal end is greater than a width of a corresponding segment of theinterior cavity of the compressible seal.

In some embodiments, a portion of the inner surface of the body wall ofthe compressible seal at the upper section of the compressible seal canhave surface roughenings. In some embodiments, the portion of the innersurface with surface roughenings is scalloped.

In some embodiments, a thickness of the body wall adjacent the base isless than any other thickness of the body wall below the at least onesealing ring. In some embodiments, the thickness of the body walladjacent the base is less than any other thickness of the body wallabove the at least one sealing ring. In some embodiments, thecompressible seal further comprises a shoulder, and the thickness of thebody wall adjacent the base is less than any other thickness of the bodywall below the shoulder. In some embodiments, the base of the cylindercan be generally cylindrical and has a diametrical width and athickness. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width to the thicknesscan be between approximately 3 and approximately 4.5. In someembodiments, the ratio of the width to the thickness can be betweenapproximately 3.5 and approximately 4

In some embodiments, the connector housing has a distal end configuredto mate with a medical device. In some embodiments, the upper section ofthe compressible seal is configured to substantially eliminate theaccumulation of fluid between the upper section and the internalprojection member above the distal surface of the at least one distalopening when the connector is in a first, closed configuration.

In some embodiments, the internal projection member includes aprojection tip between the distal surface of the at least one distalopening and a distal most end of the internal projection member. Theprojection tip can have a height. In some embodiments, the height of theprojection tip is approximately equal to the height of the at least onedistal opening. In some embodiments, the height of the projection tip isapproximately equal to three quarters of the height of the at least onedistal opening. In some embodiments, the height of the projection tip isapproximately equal to one quarter of the height of the at least onedistal opening. In some embodiments, the needleless connector includes agap between a bottom interior surface of a top of the valve member andthe projection tip.

In some embodiments, the needless connector can be attached to a firstport of a branched connector. In some embodiments, the branchedconnector can be a stopcock. In some embodiments, the branched connectorcan include a connecting region that connects the ports of the branchedconnector, and a fluid diverter extending away from the connectingregion at the first port. The needleless connector can at leastpartially surround the fluid diverter. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can be adjacent the walls of the internal cavity of theinternal projection member to substantially bifurcate the internalcavity of the internal projection member at the proximal end of theinternal projection member.

In various embodiments, a method of manufacturing a valve member of amedical connector with an injection molding process can includeinjection molding a valve member around a core pin and at leastpartially within a sleeve. The core pin can include a proximal sectionand a distal section, and the distal section can include at least oneindent configured to define scalloped sections on the valve member. Theindent can have a width and a depth, and the ratio of the width to thedepth can be between approximately 10 and approximately 30. In someembodiments, the ratio can be between approximately 15 and approximately25. The core pin can then be withdrawn from the valve member, and thevalve member can be separated from the sleeve.

In some embodiments, the at least one indent can be a plurality ofindents. In some embodiments, at least two of the plurality of indentscan have different widths and depths. In some embodiments, the at leastone indent can extend circumferentially around the core pin. In someembodiments, the cross section of the at least one indent can form anarc of a circle. In some embodiments, the circle can have a radiusbetween approximately 0.05 inches and approximately 0.2 inches.

In various embodiments, a needleless medical connector can include aconnector housing comprising an inner cavity and a compressible sealpositioned at least partially within the inner cavity of the connectorhousing, the compressible seal having: a body wall that defines aninterior space; an upper section, a lower section, and a shoulderbetween the upper section and the lower section; and a slit on a top ofthe seal that extends through the top of the seal and into the interiorspace. The compressible seal can have a first position in which the slitis generally closed to prevent fluid from passing through the slit and asecond position in which the compressible seal has been pushed downwardby a medical implement and the slit is open to allow fluid to passthrough the slit and into the interior space of the compressible seal.At least a portion of the upper section of the compressible seal canhave an outer diameter that is greater than an inner diameter of theinner cavity that is aligned with the portion of the upper section whenthe compressible seal is in the first position, thereby minimizing fluidthat can pass between the portion of the upper section of thecompressible seal and the connector housing. Such portions of the uppersection of the compressible seal can also be configured to remain incontact with walls of the inner cavity as the seal moves from the secondposition to the first position to ensure that fluid that may be on thewalls of the inner cavity, even if outside of the typical fluid path, isdirected out of the inner cavity through an upper opening to the innercavity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a three-way stopcock.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with aneedleless connector removed.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a fluid director.

FIG. 3B is a front view of the fluid director of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a side view of the fluid director of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3D is a perspective view of a fluid director.

FIG. 3E is a front view of the fluid director of FIG. 3D.

FIG. 3F is a side view of the fluid director of FIG. 3D.

FIGS. 4A-4D are cross-sectional views of a stopcock with a needlelessconnector removed and with a fluid director rotated to varyingpositions.

FIG. 5A is a front view of one embodiment of a needleless connectorassembly.

FIG. 5B is a partial cross section of a front view of one embodiment ofa needleless connector assembly.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a needleless connectorassembly.

FIG. 7A is a side view of a base of a needleless connector.

FIG. 7B is a side view of the base of FIG. 7A, rotated approximately 90degrees.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of a base of a needleless connectortaken along the line 8A-8A of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of a base of a needleless connectortaken along the line 8B-8B of FIG. 7B.

FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of a body of a needleless connector.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a body of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11A is a front view of a valve member of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the valve member of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C is a front view of a valve member of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11D is a cross-sectional view of the valve member of FIG. 11C.

FIG. 11E is a front view of a valve member of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11F is a cross-sectional view of the valve member of FIG. 11E.

FIG. 11G is a front view of a valve member of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11H is a cross-sectional view of the valve member of FIG. 11G.

FIG. 11I is a front view of a valve member of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11J is a cross-sectional view of the valve member of FIG. 11I.

FIG. 11K is a front view of a valve member of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11L is a cross-sectional view of the valve member of FIG. 11K.

FIG. 11M is a front view of a valve member of a needleless connector.

FIG. 11N is a cross-sectional view of the valve member of FIG. 11M.

FIG. 11O is a side view of a core pin used to manufacture a valvemember.

FIG. 11P is a side view of a tip of the core pin of FIG. 11O.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a stopcock with a needlelessconnector attached to one port.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a medical implement and aneedleless connector that is attached to a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a medical implement inserted into aneedleless connector.

FIG. 15A is a schematic view of flow paths on a cross-section of amedical implement inserted into a needleless connector on a stopcock toinject fluid into the connector.

FIG. 15B is a schematic view of flow paths on a cross-section of amedical implement inserted into a needleless connector on a stopcock towithdraw fluid through the connector.

FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.16A, taken along the line 16B-16B of FIG. 16.

FIG. 17A is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.17A, taken along the line 17B-17B of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.18A, taken along the line 18B-18B of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.19A, taken along the line 19B-19B of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.20A, taken along the line 20B-20B of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 21A is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.21A, taken along the line 21B-21B of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.22A, taken along the line 22B-22B of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional view of a needleless connector positionedon a port of a stopcock.

FIG. 22D is a cross-sectional view of the needleless connector of FIG.22C, taken along the line 22D-22D of FIG. 22C.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram of a system using a medical connector.

FIG. 24 is a block diagram of a system using a medical connector.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a system using a medicalconnector.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method using a medicalconnector.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method using a medicalconnector.

FIG. 28 is a front view of one embodiment of a medical connectorpositioned on a stopcock.

FIG. 29A is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 28.

FIG. 29B is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 28, rotated approximately 90 degrees from the crosssection of FIG. 29A.

FIG. 30 is a front view of one embodiment of a medical connectorpositioned on a stopcock.

FIG. 31A is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 30.

FIG. 31B is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 30, rotated approximately 90 degrees from the crosssection of FIG. 31A.

FIG. 32 is a front view of one embodiment of a medical connectorpositioned on a stopcock.

FIG. 33A is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 32.

FIG. 33B is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 32, rotated approximately 90 degrees from the crosssection of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 34 is a front view of one embodiment of a medical connectorpositioned on a stopcock.

FIG. 35A is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 34.

FIG. 35B is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 34, rotated approximately 90 degrees from the crosssection of FIG. 35A.

FIG. 36 is a front view of one embodiment of a medical connectorpositioned on a stopcock.

FIG. 37A is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 36.

FIG. 37B is a cross section of the medical connector positioned on astopcock of FIG. 36, rotated approximately 90 degrees from the crosssection of FIG. 37A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the attached figures, certain embodiments and examplesof fluid flow systems and medical connectors will now be described.Various embodiments described herein are with reference to a three-portstopcock, but they are not so limited. In some aspects, they can beapplied to four-port stopcocks, other branched connectors includingy-site connectors, or any device that has a flow of fluid and acomponent such that it can be beneficial to make sure that fluid flushesthrough the component. Various embodiments relating to a needlelessaccess port can also be applied to any access port within or at the endof a fluid line, for example, a closed female luer connector with anopen or closed male luer opposite end. As used herein, the term “fluid”refers to either gases or liquids.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a stopcock 10 that can be usedwithin a fluid flow line. The stopcock can include a first port 20, asecond port 30 opposite the first port, and a third port 40 between thefirst and second ports. The ports can be joined by a central connectingportion 50, which can allow fluid to flow from one port to another. Afluid director 60 can be used to adjust the connections between theports according to the desires of an operator. Thus, depending on theposition of the fluid director one or more ports can be in fluidcommunication with each other or can be blocked from fluid communicationwith each other. Though shown opaque, in some embodiments one or morecomponents can be translucent, transparent, and/or clear such that thefluid flow path through the components is visible.

In various embodiments, different ports can generally be configured toaccommodate any standard medical connector or implement, and can beconfigured to conform with ANSI (American National Standards Institute,Washington, D.C.) or other applicable standards. The term “medicalimplement” is used herein to denote any medical device commonly used inthe medical field that can be connected or joined with any embodimentsof the connectors disclosed herein. Examples of medical implements thatare contemplated include, without limitation, tubing, luers, conduits,syringes, intravenous devices (both peripheral and central lines),closable male luer connectors (both integrally formed with a syringe orindependent connectors), pumps, piggyback lines, and other componentswhich can be used in connection with a medical valve or connector.Different ports can also be configured to have non-standard connections.

In some embodiments, a first port 20 can have a threaded end 22 that canbe used to connect to a threaded medical connector. In some embodiments,the second port 30 can have a male luer lock 32, including a taperedcannula 34. In some embodiments, one or more of the ports can beconfigured to attach to or be formed with a needleless access port, suchas needleless connector 100. In the illustrated embodiment, a needlelessconnector is attached to the third port, between the first and secondports. In some embodiments, a portion of the needleless connector can beintegrally formed with the connecting portion 50. In some embodiments,more than one needleless connector can attach to the stopcock, or aneedleless connector can attach to a different port than the third port.In some embodiments, a stopcock 10 can have more than three ports.

When the needleless connector 100 is positioned between the first andsecond ports, it can be used to access a flow of fluid between the firstport 20 and second port 30. The needleless connector can be used to drawfluid from the flow between the first and second ports, from one ofeither the first or second ports, or the needleless connector can beused to inject a fluid, such as a medicine, into the flow. In someembodiments, it can be desirable for the stopcock to be configured suchthat a fluid that flows from the first port 20 to the second port 30 canalso flow at least partially into the third port and/or a needlelessconnector attached to the third port. This can help flush a majority ofany fluid located within the third port and/or the needleless connectorattached to the third port, such as the needleless connector 100.Although various embodiments described herein are with respect to aneedleless connector including an internal projection member, anyneedleless connector may be flushed according to the embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates one aspect of a stopcock 10 that can be used to flushfluid out of a device attached to the third port 40. FIG. 2 is aperspective view of a stopcock 10 with the fluid director 60 andneedleless connector 100 both not drawn for the sake of clarity. Asillustrated in FIG. 2, the third port 40 can include a fluid diverter 42that extends away from the connecting central portion 50 of thestopcock. The fluid diverter 42 may be integrally formed with theconnection portion 50. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter may beseparately formed and subsequently heat staked, RF welded, snap-fit, orotherwise connected to the connecting portion 50.

Though illustrated as a portion of the stopcock 10, fluid diverter 42may be integrally molded with a portion of the needleless connector. Insome embodiments, fluid diverter 42 may be integrally molded with aninternal projection, such as internal projection 170 described ingreater detail below. In some embodiments, fluid diverter 42 may includemore than one portion, and a first portion of the fluid diverter can beconnected to the needleless connector and a second portion of the fluiddiverter can be connected to the stopcock 50.

A needleless connector attached to the third port may be positioned overthe fluid diverter. The fluid diverter can be used to help direct fluidthat flows from the first port 20 to the second port 30 into theneedleless connector to flush the needleless connector at a distal endthereof. Similarly, the fluid diverter can be used to help direct fluidthat flows from the second port 30 to the first port 20 into theneedleless connector to flush the needleless connector at a distal endthereof.

The fluid diverter can have a proximal end nearest the connectingportion 50 and a distal end that includes a distal or upper tip 48. Thefluid diverter can have a variety of different profiles and can be sizedaccording to the particular needless connector attached to the port withthe fluid diverter. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter is widest atits proximal end and narrows toward the distal tip. In some embodimentsit can narrow at a constant rate. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can have a first section 44 that narrows at a constant rate anda second section 46 that narrows at a constant rate different from therate of the first section. In some embodiments, the second section cannarrow at a rate that is greater than the narrowing of the firstsection. In some embodiments, one or more sections of the diverter cannarrow at variable rates. In some embodiments, the profile of the fluiddiverter is adapted to track the internal profile of an internalprojection member or a valve or seal member of the needleless connectoralong a substantial portion thereof to direct fluid toward a distalportion of the projection member to effect flushing of the projectionmember at a distal end thereof. An exemplary internal projection memberis described in more detail below.

FIGS. 3A through 3C illustrate one embodiment of a fluid director 60 ofa stopcock. FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of the fluiddirector, and FIGS. 3B and 3C illustrate front and side views,respectively. As illustrated, a fluid director can comprise an actuator70, such as a handle. This can be used to move the fluid director andadjust the connections and/or the flow of fluid between the variousports of a stopcock. The actuator can have a variety of informationalfeatures 72, such as decals or raise markings, which can be used toinform a user which ports are connected to which ports.

The fluid director 60 can also have a fluid directing section 80attached to the actuator 70. The fluid directing section can have one ormore circumferential recesses 82, which can serve as channels thatconnect ports to each other when the fluid director is positioned withina stopcock. A flow guide 84 can be positioned between two recesses. Asbest illustrated in FIG. 3C, in some embodiments the flow guide cancomprise a fluid bypass 86 such as a notch or cutout, such that theentire flow guide does not extend all the way to an outer surface of thefluid directing section 80. Though illustrated as a semi-circulardepression on the fluid guide, other configurations are also possible.For example, such fluid bypass could be angular in some embodiments. Insome embodiments, fluid bypass 86 could be a hole extending through thefluid diverter with a smaller cross-sectional area than thecross-sectional area of the fluid path or channel created by the recess82.

The fluid director can have a variety of configurations other than or inaddition to recesses 82 to create flow channels that can be used toselectively connect the first, second, and third ports. For example, insome embodiments the fluid directing section 80 can incorporate holes orpassageways therethrough. An example of a fluid director withpassageways 83, 85 extending therethrough is shown in FIGS. 3D-3F. Insome embodiments, a generally linear primary passageway 83 is configuredto extend generally along or parallel to the diameter of the fluiddiverter to connect the first and third ports when the fluid director isin the first and fourth position described in greater detail below. Insome embodiments a generally perpendicular, secondary passageway 85 canextend from a mid-point of the primary passageway 83 to direct flowtoward the third port when the fluid diverter is in the first position.Primary passageway 83 may be substantially bifurcated by a flow guide 84configured to direct fluid down secondary passageway 85 and into aconnector formed at the third port to enhance flushing therein. Flowguide 84 can have a hole 86. In some embodiments, the hole can have asmaller cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of theprimary passageway 83. In some embodiments, the hole can be centeredabout a diameter of the fluid director 60. In some embodiments, the holecan be offset from a diameter of the fluid director.

FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate how different positions of the fluiddirector can connect different ports of a stopcock. FIGS. 4A through 4Dare cross-sectional views of the stopcock. FIG. 4A illustrates thestopcock when the fluid director 60 is in a first position. In the firstposition, a recess 82 creates a fluid flow channel between the firstport 20 and the third port 40. Similarly, a recess 82 creates a flowchannel between the second port 30 and the third port 40. Additionally,in embodiments where the flow guide 84 has a fluid bypass 86 that doesnot extend all the way to an outer surface of the fluid directingsection 80, a gap 88 exists between the flow guide 84 and the fluiddiverter 42. Thus, the first port 20 and second port 30 are fluidlyconnected through the gap 88 without having to pass into the third port40. As discussed above, part of a fluid bypass can also or alternativelyextend through the fluid diverter 42. As described in more detail below,the fluid diverter can direct at least part of the flow into the thirdport.

In some embodiments, the area of the gap 88 can vary as a function ofthe cross-sectional area of the recesses 82, which defines across-sectional area of the fluid flow path within the fluid director60. For example, in some embodiments the area of the gap can be can begreater than or equal to about 5 percent and/or less than or equal toabout 15 percent of the area of the recesses. In some embodiments, thearea of the gap can be greater than or equal to about 10 percent and/orless than or equal to about 30 percent of the area of the recesses. Insome embodiments, the recesses may not have the same cross-sectionalarea, or they may not have a constant cross-sectional area. Thus, thearea of the gap can also be viewed as a function of the area of the flowguide 84 if it lacked the bypass 86 (i.e., the sum of thecross-sectional area of the flow guide and the bypass). In someembodiments, the area of the gap can be greater than or equal to about 5percent and/or less than or equal to about 15 percent of the area of theflow guide if it lacked the bypass. In some embodiments, the area of thegap can be greater than or equal to about 10 percent and/or less than orequal to about 30 percent of the area of the flow guide if it lacked thebypass.

In FIG. 4B, the fluid director has been rotated to a second positionsuch that the flow guide 84 generally points toward the second port 30.In the second position, a recess 82 can form a flow channel between thesecond port 30 and the third port 40. The fluid directing section 80blocks fluid flow between the first port 20 and the second and thirdports, such that only the second and third ports are fluidly connected.

FIG. 4C illustrates a third position, in which the fluid director hasbeen rotated such that the flow guide 84 points generally toward thefirst port 20. In the third position, a recess 82 creates a fluid flowpath between the first port 20 and the third port 40. The fluiddirecting section 80 blocks the second port 30, such that only the firstand third ports are in fluid communication with each other.

FIG. 4D illustrates a fourth position, in which the flow guide 84 pointsgenerally away from the third port 40. In the fourth position, only thefirst and second ports are in fluid communication with each other andthe third part is blocked. Fluid can flow between the first and secondports through the gap 88. The fluid flow guide can also have a varietyof positions between the first, second, third, or fourth positions.Though illustrated as a circumferential recess 82, as described aboveother features and designs can be used, such as holes or passageways, tocreate flow channels. Additionally, other designs for a fluid bypass canbe used, also as described above.

FIG. 5A illustrates a front view of one embodiment of a needlelessconnector 100. The various embodiments of needleless connectorsdescribed herein can be positioned on a stopcock port with or without afluid diverter. The various embodiments of needleless connectorsdescribed herein can also be positioned on other branched connectors, aspart of other elements within a fluid flow line, or they can bepositioned independently within a fluid flow line.

The needleless connector 100 can comprise a base section 160, a housingor body 120, and a seal or valve member 200 positioned at leastpartially within the body. In some embodiments, the valve member can begenerally flush against the top of the body to facilitate asepticprocedures thereon, such as swabbing it with alcohol prior to accessingthe connector.

The connector body 120 can include a proximal or lower portion 124 and adistal or upper portion 128 with a distal surface 129. In someembodiments, the upper portion can have threads 130 and can connect to athreaded medical implement, such as a luer connector. In someembodiments, the upper portion can have a shoulder or radial collar 132that, for example, can be used as a stop for any medical implementattached to the connector. In some embodiments, the base section 160 canbe configured to attach to a stopcock. For example, it can have a baseportion 162 with a bottom or most proximal surface 168 and a cutout 164configured to mate with a corresponding section of the port of astopcock.

The upper portion 128 of the connector body 120 can generally beconfigured to accommodate any standard medical connector or implement,as described above, including any connector or implement that conformswith ANSI or other applicable standards. In some embodiments, the upperportion can be configured to accommodate nonstandard connections.

In some embodiments, the base section 160 of the connector 100 cansimilarly be configured to accommodate any standard medical connector orimplement. In some embodiments, the connector can attach to a stopcockwith such standard connections. In some embodiments, either the upperportion 128 of the connector and/or the base section 160 of theconnector can be configured to accommodate non-standard connections.

FIG. 5B illustrates one embodiment of a needleless connector 100′ thathas a base section 160′ configured to accommodate a standard medicalconnector or implement. FIG. 5B is a front view of the needlessconnector with a partial cross-section that illustrates a male luer lock161 and cannula 163. Except for having a different type of connection onits base, the needleless connector 100′ can otherwise function accordingto any embodiment described herein and may or may not include aninternal fluid diverter.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective exploded view of a needleless connector100. As illustrated, the valve member 200 can include a valve base 210,a ribbed section 250 with a plurality of outer ribs 252, a shoulder 220,a neck portion 240, and a top 230. A slit 232 on the top can be used toprovide access to an interior of the valve member. This is described inmore detail below.

The base 160 of the needleless connector can include a collar 190 thatdefines a cavity 166 with a bottom surface 167 (see, e.g., FIG. 8A).Extending through the collar and out of the cavity is post or internalprojection member 170. The projection member can have a projection body174 and a tip 172. The walls of the projection member can define ahollow interior 280 (see, e.g., FIG. 8A), and one or more openings orwindows 180 can extend through an outer wall of the projection and intothe interior 280 of the projection. When the needleless connector isassembled, the valve member 200 can be positioned over the projection170 and the base 210 of the valve can be positioned at least partiallywithin the cavity 166. In some embodiments, base 210 can rest on bottomsurface 167 of cavity 166.

In some embodiments, the base 160 of the needleless connector can alsoinclude a circumferential projection 110 which can be configured to fitwithin a corresponding circumferential recess in the body 120 of theneedleless connector when the connector is assembled. The base can alsohave a plurality of vertical projections 192 positioned on at least aportion of the collar. These are described in more detail below.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate front and side views of the base 160 of theneedleless connector. FIG. 7B illustrates a view that is rotated 90°from that of FIG. 7A. The projection 170 of the base can have a proximalend nearest the collar 190 and a distal end at the tip 172. The tip 172can have a height h₁ measured from the top 184 of opening 180 to the endof the tip 172.

In some embodiments, the projection can be widest at the proximal endand narrow as it approaches the distal tip. In some embodiments, theprojection 170 can narrow at different rates from its proximal end tothe distal-most end of the tip 172. For example, as illustrated, theprojection body 174 can have a proximal section 176 and a distal section178. The proximal section can narrow at a first rate and the distalsection can narrow at a second rate different from the first rate. Asillustrated, the second rate is greater than the first rate, but in someembodiments the second rate can be less than the first rate. Asillustrated, the tip 172 can narrow as well. In some embodiments, thetip can maintain a constant width. In some embodiments, one or moresections of the projection body 174 can maintain a constant width.

FIG. 7B illustrates an opening 180 in the projection body 174. Asmentioned above, the opening can pass through an outer wall of theprojection 170 and into an interior of the projection. The opening canhave a variety of shapes and orientations. In some embodiments, it canbe a longitudinally oriented oval shape, or any other geometric shape inany other direction, e.g. round, rectangular, square, or the like. Insome embodiments, the projection can have more than one opening.Preferably, the projection has two openings positioned on opposite sidesof each other around the projection. Each opening can have a bottom orproximal end or surface 182 and a top or distal end or surface 184. Insome embodiments, the top of the opening can be defined by a lower endof the tip 172 of the projection. In some embodiments, the entireopening can be positioned within a distal portion 178 of the projectionbody. In some embodiments, a portion of the opening can be in both adistal section of the projection body and a proximal section 176 of theprojection body.

In some embodiments, the internal projection 170 can be sized to providevarying flow rates when connected to a standard IV bag. For example,with an IV bag operating under gravity pressure, in some embodiments aninternal projection can be sized to allow a flow rate of greater than orequal to approximately 50 mL/minute and/or less than or equal toapproximately 150 mL/minute. In some embodiments, with an IV bagoperating under gravity pressure, an internal projection can be sized toallow a flow rate of greater than or equal to approximately 75 mL/minuteand/or less than or equal to approximately 125 mL/minute. In someembodiments, with an IV bag operating under gravity pressure, aninternal projection can be sized to allow a flow rate of greater than orequal to approximately 90 mL/minute and/or less than or equal toapproximately 110 mL/minute.

The vertical projections 192 on the collar 190 of the base 160 of theneedleless connector can be used to align the base with the body of theneedleless connector during assembly. In some embodiments, the verticalprojections can have vertical side surfaces 194 that connect to angledupper surfaces 196 that meet at an edge 198. The body of the needlelessconnector can have corresponding projections, discussed below, that caninterface with the projections 192 and cause the body to rotate intoposition.

In the illustrated embodiment the base 160 has four verticalprojections. In some embodiments, the base can have more or fewer thanfour vertical projections. Preferably, the vertical projections arespaced symmetrically about the collar 190.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are cross-sectional views of the base 160 of aneedleless connector. FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view taken on theline 8A-8A illustrated in FIG. 7A, and FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional viewtaken on the line 8B-8B illustrated in FIG. 7B. FIGS. 8A and 8Billustrate the interior 280 of the projection, which is defined by thewalls of the projection. The interior can be described with respect to aplurality of sections defined by different sizes, shapes, interior wallangles, and/or the location of openings 180. Thus, for example, in someembodiments the interior 280 can have an uppermost or distal mostsection 282 and an opening section 284 that is aligned with the openings180 of the projection. The distal-most section can include a distal mostsurface 283 of the interior of the projection.

In some embodiments, the interior 280 can have an intermediate section286, below the opening section, and a bottom section 288. In someembodiments, the bottom section can have a generally circular crosssection. In some embodiments, the bottom section can have afrustoconical shape such that it narrows as it moves up from an opening290 at its base. The intermediate section 286 can also narrow from thebottom section 288 to the opening section 284. In some embodiments, theintermediate section can narrow at different rates in different planes.Thus, for example, in some embodiments the intermediate section cannarrow at a slower rate in the plane of FIG. 8A than in the plane ofFIG. 8B.

FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a body 120 of aneedleless connector. As illustrated, the body can have a plurality ofvertical projections 140 positioned in an interior of the body.Preferably, the vertical projections are oriented symmetrically aboutthe body of the needleless connector.

Each vertical projection can have two vertical side surfaces 142, twoangled lower surfaces 144, and a bottom edge 146 where the angled lowersurfaces join. When the body 120 of the needleless connector is joinedwith the base 160, if the two components are not properly aligned theangled lower surfaces 144 of the body can contact the angled uppersurfaces 196 of the base (described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B).The contact between the two surfaces can rotate the body of theneedleless connector and the base of the needleless connector relativeto each other until a vertical projection 192 of the base is orientedsuch that it can fit between vertical projections of the body. In someembodiments, the body and base can have the same number of projections.In some embodiments, one of the body or the base can have a greaternumber of projections than the other of the body or the base.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the body 120 of aneedleless connector. As illustrated, the body can have an interiorcavity 150 defined by an interior wall 152 of the body. Like theinterior of the base of a needleless connector, the interior cavity ofthe body can be described with respect to various sections. For example,in some embodiments the upper portion 128 of the body can have one ormore sections. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portion has anupper section 134 and a lower section 136. In some embodiments, thesesections can independently widen or narrow, moving away from the lowerportion 124 of the body. In some embodiments they can have a generallyconstant width or inner diameter. In the illustrated embodiment, uppersection 134 includes a taper consistent with international standards forluer connectors and lower section 136 has a generally constant innerdiameter. Generally, the largest inner diameter ID₁ of the upper portion128 can be at the very top of the body 120. If the upper portion tapers,it can have smaller inner diameters below the top of the body 120.

In some embodiments, one or both of the lower section 136 and uppersection 134 can have roughened walls. In some embodiments, the uppersection 134 can have a roughened wall and the lower section 136 can havea generally smooth wall. In some embodiments, the lower section 136 canhave roughened walls and the upper section 134 can have generally smoothwalls. In some embodiments, both can be smooth.

A transition section 154 can connect the portion of the cavity 150within the upper portion 128 of the needleless connector body 120 to amain section 156 of the cavity within the lower portion 124 of theconnector body. Preferably, the width of the transition section narrowsfrom a proximal to a distal end of the transition section 154, therebyforming a shoulder 155. Beneath the main section 156 of the cavity inthe lower portion 124 of the connector body is a base receiving section158. This section can receive the base 162 and collar 190 of the base160 of the needleless connector. As illustrated, the base receivingsection can have a circumferential recess 112 which can be adapted toreceive the circumferential projection 110 of the needleless connectorbase. These features can provide a snap-fit between the base and thebody. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of having theprojections to help join the base and the body, the base and the bodycan be welded together or secured by other means when the needlelessconnector is assembled.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate one embodiment of a valve member 200 of aneedleless connector. The valve member 200 and other valve memberembodiments described herein can be used with a variety of needlelessconnectors, including needless connectors that have an internalprojection, needleless connectors that lack an internal projection, andother types and designs of connectors. FIG. 11A is a front view and FIG.11B is a cross-sectional view of the valve member. With the exception ofa slit 232 that passes through the top 230 of the valve member, thevalve member can be symmetrical about its longitudinal axis. Asdiscussed above, the valve member can have a base 210, a ribbed section250 with a plurality of inner ribs 254 and outer ribs 252, a shoulder220, and a neck 240 between the shoulder and the top 230. In someembodiments, the ribbed section can be configured to allow the valvemember to compress a desired amount when a medical implement is used toaccess a needleless connector with the valve member. In someembodiments, the ribbed section can have generally similar ribs and ribspacing. In some embodiments, the ribbed section can have ribs ofdifferent sizes or ribs spaced differing distances from each other.Other shapes and configurations of a valve member are contemplated.

As illustrated in FIG. 11B, the valve member can have an interior space260 that extends from an upper interior section 262 immediately belowthe slit to an opening 264 at the bottom of the valve member. When theneedleless connector is fully assembled, the internal projection membercan at least partially extend into the interior of the valve member. Insome embodiments, when assembling a needleless connector an oil or otherlubricant can be inserted into the interior space 260 and/or onto theinternal projection member to help limit friction between the valvemember 200 and internal projection member. Limiting friction can helpimprove the transition between an opened position and a closed positionof the valve member within an assembled needleless connector. Thesepositions are illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, discussed below.

In some embodiments the base 210 can have a thickness t₁ and a width w₁(illustrated in FIG. 11A). Varying the thickness and/or width can affectthe structural properties of the valve, which can impact its ability tocompress and impact aspects of its manufacture. In some embodiments, theratio of the width w₁ to the thickness t₁ can be greater than or equalto approximately 2 and/or less than or equal to approximately 5. In someembodiments, the ratio of w₁ to t₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 3 and/or less than or equal to approximately 4. In someembodiments, the ratio of w₁ to t₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 3.25 and/or less than or equal to approximately 3.75.

In some embodiments, the total height of the valve h₈ and the thicknesst₁ can also be independently varied to affect the structural propertiesof the valve. In some embodiments, the ratio of the height h₈ to thethickness t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 8 and/or lessthan or equal to approximately 12. In some embodiments, the ratio of h₈to t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 9 and/or less thanor equal to approximately 11. In some embodiments, the ratio of h₈ to t₁can be greater than or equal to approximately 9.5 and/or less than orequal to approximately 10.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of h₈ to t₁can be greater than or equal to approximately 9.7 and/or less than orequal to approximately 10.1.

As illustrated in FIG. 11B, an interior surface 266 of the valve member(or an outer surface of the interior space 260) can have a variety ofsurface features. Some of these features can help maintain desiredsealing characteristics against the internal projection member when itis positioned within the valve member. For example, in some embodimentsthe valve member can have a plurality of sealing rings 224. The sealingrings can be internal projections that preferably extendcircumferentially around the entire interior surface of the valvemember. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the valve member can havefour sealing rings 224. The sealing rings can be positioned such thatthey can contact the projection at different desired locations along theprojection. In some embodiments, the sealing rings can be spacedapproximately an equal distance apart. In some embodiments, the top twosealing rings can form a first set and the bottom two sealing rings canform a second set. In some embodiments, the sealing rings of the firstset can be separated a first distance approximately equal to a seconddistance between the sealing rings of the second set, but the distancebetween the first set and the second set can be greater than or lessthan the first and second distance. Other spacing arrangements arecontemplated. In some embodiments, discussed in more detail below, thevalve member can have more or fewer sealing rings 224.

For example, FIGS. 11C and 11D illustrate one embodiment of a valvemember 200 that can have five sealing rings 224. In some embodiments,one or more sealing rings can be joined by a contact portion 226, whichcan be configured to contact an internal projection member when it ispositioned within the valve member. As illustrated, a contact portioncan be between the bottom two sealing rings. In some embodiments, it canbe between other sealing rings, such as the top two sealing rings. Acontact portion is discussed in more detail with respect to FIGS. 17Aand 17B. FIGS. 11C and 11D also illustrate an embodiment of a valvemember 200 with a thicker top 230 than the top of the embodiment ofFIGS. 11A and 11B. This is also discussed in more detail with respect toFIGS. 17A and 17B.

The ribbed section 250 of the valve member can have a plurality ofinterior ribs 254 on the interior surface 266 of the valve member. Thevalve member can also have a height h₂ defined as the distance betweenthe uppermost sealing ring 224 and a bottom interior surface 234 of thetop 230 of the valve member (i.e., an uppermost surface of the interiorspace 260 of the valve member).

In some embodiments, a valve member can have one or more sealing ringspositioned to contact an internal projection member above or below adesired position on the internal projection member. For example, FIGS.11E and 11F illustrate one embodiment of a valve member 200 that has twosealing rings, both sealing rings configured to contact the internalprojection member at or below an opening in the internal projectionmember, as discussed further below. In some embodiments, a valve membermay have sealing rings configured to contact an internal projectionmember at or above an opening in the internal projection member. In someembodiments, a valve member may have only a single sealing ring.

In some embodiments, the section of the valve member 200 above theuppermost sealing ring 224 can have generally flat interior walls, asillustrated. In some embodiments, the interior walls can be generallystraight, and in some embodiments they can have a slight taper. Forexample, the illustrated embodiment has a 1 degree taper that narrowstoward the top of the valve. In some embodiments, the taper can widentoward the top of the valve. In some embodiments, the taper can begreater than or equal to approximately 0.5 and/or less than or equal toapproximately 1.5 degrees. In some embodiments, the taper can be greaterthan or equal to approximately 0 and/or less than or equal toapproximately 4 degrees. In some embodiments, the taper can be greaterthan or equal to approximately 3 and/or less than or equal toapproximately 7 degrees.

In some embodiments, the interior of the valve member 200 betweenadjacent sealing rings 224 can be wider than an interior width at alocation above the top sealing ring. In some embodiments, the interiorof the valve member between adjacent sealing rings can be wider than anyinterior width at a location above the top sealing ring.

FIGS. 11E and 11F also illustrate an embodiment of a valve member with arectangular base profile. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w₁of the base to the thickness t₁ of the base can be greater than or equalto approximately 4 and/or less than or equal to approximately 8. In someembodiments, the ratio of w₁ to t₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 5 and/or less than or equal to approximately 7. In someembodiments, the ratio of w₁ to t₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 5.5 and/or less than or equal to approximately 6.5.

In some embodiments, the ratio of the total height of the valve h₈ tothe thickness t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 15 and/orless than or equal to approximately 25. In some embodiments, the ratioof h₈ to t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 17 and/or lessthan or equal to approximately 22. In some embodiments, the ratio of h₈to t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 18 and/or less thanor equal to approximately 20. In some embodiments, the ratio of h₈ to t₁can be greater than or equal to approximately 18.5 and/or less than orequal to approximately 19.5. The illustrated embodiment is shown in anassembled connector in FIGS. 18A and 18B.

In some embodiments, the thickness of the base 210 can be modified inorder to provide support for automated manufacturing procedures. FIGS.11G and 11H illustrate an embodiment of a valve member 200 with athickened base 210. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w₁ ofthe base to the thickness t₁ of the base can be greater than or equal toapproximately 2 and/or less than or equal to approximately 5.5. In someembodiments, the ratio of w₁ to t₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 2.5 and/or less than or equal to approximately 5. In someembodiments, the ratio of w₁ to t₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 3 and/or less than or equal to approximately 4.5. In someembodiments, the ratio of w₁ to t₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 3.5 and/or less than or equal to approximately 4.

In some embodiments, the ratio of the total height of the valve h₈ tothe thickness t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 8 and/orless than or equal to approximately 13. In some embodiments, the ratioof h₈ to t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 9 and/or lessthan or equal to approximately 12. In some embodiments, the ratio of h₈to t₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 10 and/or less thanor equal to approximately 11. In some embodiments, the ratio of h₈ to t₁can be greater than or equal to approximately 10.5 and/or less than orequal to approximately 11.

In some embodiments, changing the thickness of the base can affect thecompressibility of the valve member. For example, increasing thethickness of the base can limit the ability of the valve member as awhole to compress when a medical implement is used to access aneedleless connector with the valve member. In some embodiments, theribbed section 250 can be modified to account for any changes in thebase and allow the valve member to compress a desired amount when amedical implement is used to access a needleless connector with thevalve member. For example, in some embodiments the section 261 of thevalve member wall adjacent the base 210 can be thinner than othersections of the valve member wall and/or thinner than previousembodiments. In some embodiments, the section 261 of the valve memberwall can be thinner than any other section of the valve member wall. Insome embodiments, the section 261 of the valve member wall can bethinner than any other section of the valve member wall below a firstsealing ring 224. In some embodiments, the section 261 of the valvemember wall can be thinner than any other section of the valve memberwall below a shoulder 220. The section 261 can help allow the valvemember to compress more than it otherwise would when a medical implementaccesses the needleless connector. The thickness of the wall and theamount of wall with a thinner section can be configured to allow thevalve member to compress a desired amount, as discussed further below.The illustrated embodiment is illustrated in an assembled connector inFIGS. 19A and 19B.

In some embodiments, the interior surface 266 of a valve member 200 canhave surface roughenings 268, such as scalloped, curved, uneven,wrinkled, or irregular sections instead of or in addition to the ribbedsections 250. For example, FIGS. 11I and 11J illustrate an embodiment ofa valve member 200 where the section of the interior surface 266 abovethe uppermost sealing ring 224 has roughenings 268 in the form of ascalloped surface having slight curves. This can help decrease frictionbetween the valve member and an internal projection when a medicalimplement is used to access a needleless connector with the valvemember, as discussed further below. The illustrated embodiment is shownin an assembled connector in FIGS. 20A and 20B.

In some embodiments, a valve member 200 can have an external annularprojection, seal, or wiper 236 extending externally from the valve at orabove the neck 240. As described further below with respect to FIGS. 21Athrough 22D, the seal can help prevent blood from collecting within thebody of the needleless connector or between the valve member and thebody of the needleless connector. Accordingly, the seal can beconfigured to remove fluid from the connector even if the fluid isoutside the intended fluid path. FIGS. 11K and 11L illustrate oneembodiment of a valve member with such a seal 236. As illustrated, theseal 236 can generally have the shape of an annular ring. In someembodiments, the seal can have a variety of other shapes. For example,FIGS. 11M and 11N illustrate one embodiment of a valve member 200 withan external seal 236 that has an upper side and a lower side that jointo form a tip 238. In some embodiments, one of the upper side and lowerside can be generally horizontal. In some embodiments, one or both ofthe upper side and lower side can be generally flat. In someembodiments, one or both of the upper side and lower side can begenerally curved, have multiple curves, or have other shapes andconfigurations.

In some embodiments, the seal 236 can have an outer diameter OD₁. Thisis described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the seal 236 canbe positioned a distance below the top of the valve member, although insome embodiments it can be flush with the top. Preferably, the externalseal 236 is close enough to the top of the valve member to allow for theseal and top to be sterilized when the valve member is in a closedposition by swabbing the top of the valve member. The seal illustratedin FIGS. 11M and 11N includes an upper profile with a raised innerportion and a curved annular transition toward the tip 238. Suchcurvature can facilitate sterilization, such as by alcohol swab, byreducing abrupt transitions and can minimize displacement of the upperprofile in the lateral direction during swabbing by reducing frictionbetween the seal and the swab.

The interior surface 266 of embodiments of valve members with externalseals 236 can be configured according to any of the various embodimentsdescribed herein. As illustrated, the interior surface in the upperinterior section 262 of the valve members of FIGS. 11K-11N is similar tothat shown and described with respect to FIGS. 11E and 11F, but otherdescribed configurations can be used.

In some embodiments, the valve member 200 can be injection molded. FIGS.11O and 11P illustrate one embodiment of a core pin 340 that can be usedas part of an injection molding process to form the valve member. FIG.11O illustrates the core pin and FIG. 11P illustrates a section of thecore pin identified in FIG. 11O. The core pin can include a lower (orproximal) section 350, which in some embodiments can include indents 354that can form inner ribs of the valve member. The core pin can alsoinclude an upper (or distal) section 360, which can be configured tocorrespond to a profile of any valve member discussed above. Forexample, in some embodiments, the upper section 360 can have one or moregrooves 324 that can define sealing rings 224 of a valve member. Theupper section can also include cutouts or indents 368 that can defineroughenings 268, such as scalloped sections. The indents 354, 368preferably extend circumferentially around the core pin, although insome embodiments they may extend only partially around. In someembodiments, the upper section 360 can be generally flat or smooth abovethe grooves 324.

As illustrated in FIG. 11P, the indents 368 can have a depth d₁ and awidth w₂. In some embodiments the width and depth can be the same forall indents 368, and in some embodiments one or both of the width anddepth can vary among indents. In some embodiments, the ratio of thewidth w₂ to the depth d₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 5and/or less than or equal to approximately 30. In some embodiments, theratio of the width w₂ to the depth d₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 10 and/or less than or equal to approximately 30. In someembodiments, the ratio of the width w₂ to the depth d₁ can be greaterthan or equal to approximately 15 and/or less than or equal toapproximately 25. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w₂ to thedepth d₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately 18 and/or lessthan or equal to approximately 22. In some embodiments, the ratio of thewidth w₂ to the depth d₁ can be approximately 20.

In some embodiments, the indents 368 can have a cross-section that formsan arc of a circle having radius R₁, as illustrated. In someembodiments, the radius R₁ can be greater than or equal to approximately0.05 inches and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.2 inches. Insome embodiments, the radius R₁ can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.08 inches and/or less than or equal to approximately0.16 inches. In some embodiments, the radius R₁ can be greater than orequal to approximately 0.1 inches and/or less than or equal toapproximately 0.14 inches. In some embodiments, the radius R₁ can beapproximately equal to 0.125 inches. In some embodiments, the scallopscan have cross-sections with non-circular profiles.

The indents 368 naturally form valve members that have varying innerdiameters at the surface roughenings 268. In some embodiments, the ratioof the maximum inner diameter to the minimum inner diameter of the valvemember at the surface roughenings can be between 1 and approximately1.05. In some embodiments, the ratio can be between 1 and approximately1.10. In some embodiments, the ratio can be between 1 and approximately1.15. In some embodiments, the ratio can be between 1 and approximately1.20. In some embodiments, the ratio can be between 1 and approximately1.25. In some embodiments, the ratio can be between 1 and approximately1.30. It is understood that for each embodiment of the core pin 340, acorresponding embodiment of a valve member molded on the core pinexists.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stopcock assembly 10with an assembled needleless connector 100 positioned over a port thathas a fluid diverter 42. The needleless connector can surround the fluiddiverter, which can extend into the needleless connector. The stopcockis illustrated with the fluid directing section 80 in a first position,such that the first port 20, the second port 30, and the third port 40are all in fluid communication with each other. Schematic arrowsrepresent fluid flow paths as the fluid flows from the first port to thesecond port. In some embodiments, fluid can flow in other directions,such as from the second port to the first port.

As fluid flows, the channel recesses 82 can guide the flow from thefirst port 20 toward the third port 40. In some embodiments, some of thefluid will flow through the gap 88 between the fluid flow guide 84 andthe fluid diverter 42, such that a first portion of the fluid does notenter the third port 40 but instead flows directly from the first portthrough the recesses 82 and into the second port 30. A second portion offluid, however, will pass into the third port 40. At least part of thissecond portion can be forced by the fluid diverter 42 to flow up intothe needleless connector 100, over the top of the fluid diverter, andthen back down the other side, through a recess 82 and into the secondport 30. Thus, the second portion of fluid can help flush out theneedleless connector at a distal end thereof. As described in moredetail with respect to FIG. 16A, in various embodiments the fluiddiverter can direct at least part of the second portion of fluid intodifferent positions within the needleless connector.

The components of the stopcock 10 and/or needleless connector 100, suchas the ports 20, 30, 40, the connecting portion 50, the fluid director80, the fluid diverter 42, the valve member 200, the base member 160,and the body 120, can be formed of a variety of materials depending ondesired functionality. For example, in some embodiments it may desirableto have components of the needleless connector to be formed of materialsthat allow for an operator to see the fluid flow path through theneedleless connector to verify that blood or other fluid has beenflushed out, or that blood has not been trapped in parts of theconnector that may not flush, such as between the valve member 200 andthe internal projection member 170. In some embodiments, one or more ofthe components of the needleless connector can be made from atranslucent, transparent, and/or clear material.

Additionally, in some embodiments the components of the needlelessconnector, such as the valve member 200, the base member 160, and thebody 120, can include elements configured or adapted to kill pathogens.For example, in some embodiments one or more of the components of theneedleless connector can include antimicrobial agents. In someembodiments, the antimicrobial agents can be a coating on the componentsof the needleless connector or can be incorporated into the structure ofthe components of the needleless connector, from where they can leachout, such as from the silicone matrix of the valve member.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate cross-sectional views of a medical connector100, attached to a stopcock with a fluid diverter 42, as the medicalconnector receives a medical implement 300 that contains a fluid. Themedical implement can be used to inject a fluid into a flow passingthrough the stopcock, to withdraw fluid, or to perform other procedures.FIG. 13 illustrates the medical connector as the medical implementapproaches, with the valve member 200 in a closed position, and FIG. 14illustrates the medical implement once it has been inserted and movedthe valve member into an open position.

Generally, the tip 310 of the medical implement can be inserted into theupper portion 128 of the body 120 of the medical connector. As the tipenters the upper portion, it will push the valve member 200, compressingit into the body of the medical connector. Various features of the valvemember, such as the ribs in the ribbed section 250, can help allow thevalve member to compress. In the illustrated embodiment, the medicalimplement 300 includes a syringe with a luer tip. In some embodiments,the medical implement can have a luer lock connector adapted tointerface with the threads 130 of the needle connector body 120. Anouter shoulder or collar 132 can help block devices with connectionssuch as luer connections from being inserted too far into the needlelessconnector.

As the valve member 200 is pushed into the body 120 of the needlelessconnector, the projection tip 172 can contact the slit 232 in the top230 of the valve member. As the valve member is compressed further, thetip can pass through the slit, opening it and allowing the valve memberto slide down over the projection tip and/or projection body 174. Thetip 310 of the medical implement 300 can be pressed against the top 230of the valve member, preferably creating a seal such that fluid in themedical implement does not flow past the top of the valve member outsideof the valve member. In some instances, the seal between the tip 310 andthe top 230 of the valve member may not always be perfect or may breakbefore the medical implement is completely withdrawn. For example, insome cases manufacturing tolerances may be such that the tip 310 can bewithdrawn from the connector at an angle. If a care provider does so, itcould break the seal and allow blood or other fluids to flow onto thetop of the valve member. Additionally, a care provider will typicallyswab the top of the valve with a disinfecting agent before inserting themedical implement 300. Thus, the top of the valve can sometimes be wetwhen a tip is inserted, which can create a weaker seal. Additionally, ifthe top of the valve is wet with a substance that can thin blood, suchas alcohol, it can be easier for blood to pass through any seal betweenthe top of the valve and the tip 310 of a medical implement. Asdescribed with respect to FIGS. 11K through 11N, various embodiments ofa valve member 200 can include exterior sealing rings that can helpprevent any blood on the top of the valve member from flowing past thetop to get between the valve member and the body of the connector. Inaddition, such features can act on the walls of the inner cavity of theconnector to move any leaked fluid (e.g., fluid that is outside of theintended flow path of the medical implement and the projection member)out of the connector as the seal transitions to the first, closedposition.

As the tip of the medical implement continues to push the valve memberdown, illustrated in FIG. 14, the top of the valve member and the openslit will reach the top 184 of an opening 180. As the valve memberpasses this point, fluid can begin to flow through the opening betweenthe medical implement and the interior 280 of the projection.Preferably, the medical implement can be inserted far enough such thatthe top surface of the top 230 of the valve member is at or below thebottom 182 of the opening. This can help maximize the flow rate betweenthe medical implement and the needleless connector.

In some embodiments, the needleless connector can be configured tofunction without an internal projection member, and the fluid divertercan extend directly into the interior of the valve member. Rather thancompressing a valve member until an internal projection memberpenetrates the slit, a tip of a medical implement can pass through aslit in the valve member itself, allowing fluid to flow through thevalve member and out of the needleless connector. In some embodiments,the tip can pass through the valve member without pushing the valvemember into the needleless connector. In some embodiments, the tip canextend around a portion of the fluid diverter when the medical implementis inserted into the valve member. Some examples of embodiments where aneedleless connector does not have an internal projection member areillustrated and described below.

In some embodiments, the valve member 200 can be configured to compressuniformly as a tip of a medical implement is inserted into the body of amedical connector. In some embodiments, the valve member can beconfigured to compress non-uniformly. For example, in some embodimentsan upper or distal region of the valve member, such as the neck 240, canbegin to compress before a lower or proximal region, such as the ribbedsection 250 or any region below the shoulder 220, can begin to compress.In some embodiments, the upper region can fully compress before thelower region fully compresses. In some embodiments, the upper region canfully compress before the lower region begins to compress. When amedical implement is removed, the upper and lower regions can expandnon-uniformly in opposite sequence. Thus, in some embodiments a lowerregion can begin to expand before an upper region begins to expand, or alower region can fully expand before an upper region fully expands. Thiscan provide various sealing benefits, discussed further below.

In some embodiments, the valve member can be configured to compressnon-uniformly such that an upper or distal region of the valve member200, such as the neck 240, can begin to compress after a lower orproximal region, such as the ribbed section 250 or any region below theshoulder 220, can begin to compress. In some embodiments, the lowerregion can fully compress before the upper region fully compresses. Insome embodiments, the lower region can fully compress before the upperregion begins to compress. When a medical implement is removed, theupper and lower regions can expand non-uniformly in opposite sequence.Thus, in some embodiments an upper region can begin to expand before alower region begins to expand, or an upper region can fully expandbefore a lower region fully expands.

In some embodiments, the valve member 200 can be configured such that anupper or distal region of the valve member, such as the neck 240, doesnot appreciably compress as a tip of a medical implement is insertedinto the body of a medical connector. The valve can compresssubstantially within a lower or proximal region. This can also providevarious sealing benefits, discussed further below.

In some embodiments, the needleless connector may have a valve memberwhere a top of the valve member defines a continuous opening rather thana slit. In such embodiments, an interior projection can extend into orthrough the continuous opening. A medical implement can be used tocompress the valve member and expose openings in the interior projectionto fluid within the medical implement. Further details of these andother embodiments can be found in PCT Application No. PCT/US2012/054289,filed Sep. 7, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein inits entirety and a copy of which is enclosed and is included as part ofthis specification.

The flow rate from the medical implement 300 into the needlelessconnector can be limited by the smallest area through which fluid mustpass. Preferably, this limiting area is defined by the cross sectionalarea of the interior 280 of the projection at the bottom of the openings180, rather than by the openings themselves. In such embodiments,maximum flow rate can be achieved when the valve member 200 has beenpushed down to a point where the total area of openings 180 exposed tofluid in the medical implement is equal to the cross sectional area ofthe interior 280 of the projection at the bottom of the openings. Asdescribed, the cross sectional area of the interior of the projectionaccounts for any portion of the fluid diverter that occupies spacewithin the interior of the projection. In some embodiments, the openingscan be sized such that this maximum flow rate can be achieved when thetop surface 230 of the valve member is generally level with the bottomedge 182 of the openings. In some embodiments, the valve member can beconfigured to be easily compressible to this position but not past it,such as by modifying the thickness or ribbing on the valve member wallsas discussed above. In some embodiments, maximum flow rate can beachieved when the top surface of the valve member has not yet reachedthe bottom edge of the openings. In some embodiments, the valve membercan be configured to be easily compressible to this position but notpast it.

FIG. 15A illustrates one embodiment of fluid flow paths that can existwhen a medical implement 300 has been inserted into the needlelessconnector 100 to inject fluid into the connector. When fluid is flowingthrough the stopcock from the first port 20 to the second port 30, fluidfrom the medical implement can join this fluid flow. In someembodiments, fluid from the medical implement can flow toward the fluiddirecting section 80 on either side of the fluid diverter 42, and fluidthat is on the side of the first port can pass through the gap 88between the fluid flow guide 84 and the fluid diverter 42. In someembodiments, if the pressure of fluid flowing from the first port intothe fluid directing section 80 is sufficiently great, fluid can insteadfollow a path similar to that illustrated in FIG. 12, with fluid flowingup one side of the fluid diverter, over the top, and then back down theopposite side. In such cases, fluid from the medical implement can flowdown the opposite side with fluid flowing in from the first port.

A medical implement can also be used to withdraw fluid from the fluidflow path through the connector 100. FIG. 15B illustrates one embodimentof fluid flow paths that can exist when a medical implement 300 has beeninserted into the needleless connector 100 to withdraw fluid from theconnector. Generally, fluid will be drawn from a source connected to oneof the first port 20 and the second port 30, and the fluid directingsection 80 can be positioned such that the other of the first port andthe second port is blocked. FIG. 15B illustrates an embodiment in whichthe fluid directing section blocks the first port 20 and fluid is drawnfrom the second port 30, through the needleless connector 100, and intothe medical implement 300. Fluid can flow through the connector on bothsides of the diverter 42. In some embodiments, fluid can be withdrawnfrom the fluid flow path through the connector when the fluid directingsection 80 is in the first position, as it is in FIG. 15A.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate a more detailed view of a needlelessconnector 100 positioned on a port of a stopcock with a fluid diverter42. FIG. 16A is the same view of the needleless connector found in FIG.12, and FIG. 16B is a view of the needleless connector taken along theline 16B-16B illustrated in FIG. 16A. FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate thesame views as FIGS. 16A and 16B, respectively, but with the valve member200 of FIGS. 11C and 11D. FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate the same viewsbut with the valve member 200 of FIGS. 11E and 11F. FIGS. 19A and 19Billustrate the same views but with the valve member 200 of FIGS. 11G and11H. FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate the same views but with the valvemember 200 of FIGS. 11I and 11J. FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate the sameviews but with the valve member 200 of FIGS. 11K and 11L. FIGS. 22A and22B illustrate the same views but with the valve member 200 of FIGS. 11Mand 11N.

With respect to FIGS. 16A and 16B, in some embodiments, when the valvemember 200 is in a closed position, a shoulder 220 of the valve membercan abut a shoulder 155 on an interior of the needleless connector. Thiscan help provide a consistent positioning of the valve member relativeto the connector body 120. The valve member and the projection can besized and configured such that when the valve member is in the closedposition, two of the sealing rings 224 can be pressed against the tip172 of the projection above the openings 180. One or more of the ringscan create a seal against the tip.

In some embodiments, the two lower sealing rings 224 can be pressedagainst the projection body or partially against the projection body174, thereby creating one or more seals against the projection body. Insome embodiments, a portion of a sealing ring can extend above thebottom 182 of the openings 180. In some embodiments, an entire sealingring can be above a bottom of the opening and below the top 184 of theopenings.

In some embodiments, the valve member can have three sealing rings 224.In some embodiments, two sealing rings can contact the tip 172 of theprojection above the openings, creating one or more sealed locations. Atleast a portion of the third sealing ring can contact the projectionbody 174 below the openings. In some embodiments, a valve member canhave only two sealing rings, one in contact with the projection tipabove the openings and one in contact with the projection body below theopenings.

In some embodiments, if a sealing ring 224 configured to contact theprojection body 174 below the openings 180 moves far enough up such thatit no longer contacts the projection body, whether from an unexpectedforce on the valve member, changes in the physical properties of thevalve member 200 through use, unexpected sizing of the openings 180 orsealing rings 224 due to manufacturing variance, or other variable,blood can pass below the sealing ring and be trapped between the valvemember and the internal projection 170. Blood that is trapped betweenthe valve member and the internal projection cannot be flushed or easilyremoved. To help prevent blood being thus trapped, in some embodiments asealing ring 224 configured to contact the projection body 174 below theopenings 180 can be made wide enough to ensure that a portion of thesealing ring maintains contact and a seal against the projection body174. In some embodiments, the sealing ring can be made wider than othersealing rings. In some embodiments, a sealing ring 224 configured tocontact and seal against a tip 172 of the projection 170 can besimilarly made wide enough to ensure that it maintains contact and aseal against the tip, preventing fluid from passing the sealing ring andentering an upper interior section 262 of the valve member, as describedbelow. In some embodiments, this sealing ring can be made wider thanother sealing rings.

With respect to FIGS. 17A and 17B, and as described above, in someembodiments one or more of the sealing rings 224 can have a contactportion 226 between them. A contact portion can be sized such that whenthe sealing rings contact and seal against the projection 170, thecontact portion can contact and/or be immediately adjacent theprojection body. This can help prevent blood from passing below asealing ring configured to contact the projection body 174 below theopenings 180. Even if the sealing ring unexpectedly moves up far enoughsuch that it no longer contacts the projection body, the contact portioncan occupy all or substantially all of the space between the projectionbody 174, the valve member 200, and a sealing ring 224 further below. Insome embodiments, a contact portion can seal against the projectionmember. FIGS. 17A and 17B also illustrate an embodiment in which one ormore sealing rings 224 can extend at least partially into the windows180.

Continuing with respect to FIGS. 17A and 17B, in some embodiments amedical connector can include an external indicator 122, which can beused to indicate the type of connector. In some embodiments, theindicator can be a marking or other visual indicator. In someembodiments, the indicator can be an indicator component, such as aring, as illustrated. In some embodiments, an indicator can be of adifferent color than the rest of the connector body 120. In someembodiments, an indicator can be opaque while the rest of the connectorbody is translucent, transparent, and/or clear. In some embodiments, anindicator can be translucent, transparent, and/or clear.

In some embodiments, the valve member 200 and projection tip 172 can besized to help prevent the passage of fluid into areas where the fluidmay not be flushed out. This can occur, for example, after a valvemember has been compressed by a medical implement, the medical implementis removed or being removed, and the valve member begins to return tothe illustrated closed position. As the valve member moves upward, thetop 230 of the valve member will pass the uppermost point of theprojection tip 172, allowing the slit 232 to close and seal. As thevalve member moves further up, the upper interior section 262 of thevalve member can expand, which can create a negative pressure. Thisnegative pressure can tend to draw fluids from the interior of theprojection 280, through the openings 180, and into the interior uppersection 262. The interior upper section may not get flushed by fluidsdiverted into the valve member by the fluid diverter 42, and any fluidthat reaches the upper section may tend to stay there until a medicalimplement is again connected.

In some embodiments, to help prevent this accumulation of fluid, the tip172 of the projection can be sized such that when the projection passesback through the slit 232 as the valve member moves back toward theclosed position, a sealing ring 224 can already be in contact with thetip of the projection. In some embodiments, this sealing ring can createa seal against the tip of the projection sufficient to prevent fluidfrom passing into the upper interior section 262 of the valve member.The negative pressure generated by the expansion of the upper interiorsection can instead draw a small amount of air through the slit. In someembodiments, the seal formed by the slit is strong enough such that thenegative pressure is maintained in the upper interior section until amedical implement is again inserted into the needleless connector,opening the slit. As discussed above, the negative pressure can bereduced by incorporating a neck section 240 that resists compressionand/or radial expansion.

In some embodiments, the height h₁ of the tip 172 of the projection canbe equal to or greater than the height h₂ between the uppermost sealingring 224 and the bottom interior surface 234 of the top of the valvemember. This can help ensure that a sealing ring is in contact with thetip of the projection when space begins to develop in the upper interiorsection 262 of the valve member. In some embodiments, the height h₁ canbe greater than h₂. In some embodiments, the height h₁ can be such thatthe top of the projection tip 172 extends to and/or touches the bottominterior surface 234 of the top 230 of the valve member 200 when thevalve member is in the closed position.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 17A, in addition to or inalternative to adjusting the size of the tip 172, the thickness of thetop 230 or the positioning of the sealing rings 224 can be adjusted tohelp ensure that when the projection 170 passes through the slit 232 asthe valve member 200 moves toward the closed position, a sealing ring224 can be in contact with the tip of the projection. In someembodiments, the ratio of the heights h₁ to h₂ can be greater than orequal to approximately 1 and/or less than or equal to approximately 3.In some embodiments, the ratio of the heights h₁ to h₂ can be greaterthan or equal to approximately 1 and/or less than or equal toapproximately 2.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of the heights h₁ toh₂ can be greater than or equal to approximately 1 and/or less than orequal to approximately 2. In some embodiments, the ratio of the heightsh₁ to h₂ can be greater than or equal to approximately 1 and/or lessthan or equal to approximately 1.5. In some embodiments, the ratio ofthe heights h₁ to h₂ can be greater than or equal to approximately 1.2and/or less than or equal to approximately 1.7. In some embodiments theratio can be less than 1. In some embodiments, the tip 172 can extend atleast partially into the slit 232.

Embodiments where the valve member compresses and expands non-uniformly,described above with respect to FIGS. 13 and 14, can also help precludefluid from collecting in an interior upper section 262 of the valvemember. For example, a delayed expansion of a lower section relative toan upper section of the valve member can help ensure that a sealing ringcontacts the projection tip 172 of the projection 170 when the uppermostpoint of the projection tip 172 passes through the slit 232, allowingthe slit to close and space to begin to form in the upper interiorsection 262 of the valve member. As described above, the seal betweenthe sealing ring and the projection tip can prevent fluid from enteringthe upper interior section.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 18A and 18B and asdiscussed above, the valve member 200 can prevent fluid from collectingin an interior upper section 262 of the valve member without having anysealing rings positioned to contact the tip 172 of the internalprojection 170 above the openings 180. The valve member can have aninterference fit with the internal projection that prevents fluid frompassing between the two. In some embodiments, a width of the interiorupper section 262 can be approximately equal to a width of the tip 172at a corresponding position on the tip. In some embodiments, a width ofthe interior upper section can be slightly less than a width of the tipat a corresponding position on the tip. In such embodiments, theinternal projection 170 can expand the valve member at the interiorupper section 262, creating a tighter fit between the valve member andthe projection.

In some embodiments, the shoulder 220 of the valve member and theshoulder 155 in an interior of the needleless connector can be sized andconfigured to such that the shoulder 155 of the connector pushes againstthe shoulder 220 of the valve member to sustain or increase a contactpressure between the valve member and the projection 170. This can alsohelp prevent undesirable fluid from collecting in an interior uppersection 262 of the valve member while allowing the valve member andprojection to be configured for reduced friction between them. In someembodiments, this can allow the valve member and projection to beconfigured for minimal friction between them. In some embodiments, theshoulder of the connector and/or the shoulder of the valve member can beconfigured to form a desired contact pressure between the valve memberand the projection. In some embodiments, one or more components of thevalve member can have a lubricating agent incorporated into theirstructure, from where the lubricating agent can leach out. For example,in some embodiments a lubricating agent can be incorporated into thesilicone matrix of the valve member and can bleed out over time, helpingreduce friction between the valve member 200 and the internal projection170.

In some embodiments, the height h₁ of the tip of the projection canvary. The height of the tip can affect the available surface area forcontact between the internal projection 170 and the valve member 200.This can impact the ability to prevent fluid from accumulating in theupper interior section 262 of the valve member. In some embodiments, theheight h₁ can be greater than or approximately equal to a height of theopening 180, measured from the bottom 182 of the opening to the top 184of the opening. In some embodiments, the height of the tip of theprojection can be greater than or equal to approximately three quartersof the height of the opening 180, greater than or equal to approximatelyone half of the height of the opening, or greater than or equal to aboutone quarter of the height of the opening.

FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate a connector 100 with a valve member thathas a base 210 according to the embodiment described above with respectto FIGS. 11G and 11H. They also illustrate a valve member where thesection 261 of valve member wall adjacent the base can be thinner thanother sections of the valve member wall.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 20A and 20B and asdiscussed above, surface roughenings 268 can help decrease the frictionbetween the valve member 200 and the internal projection 170, whilestill preventing fluid from collecting in an interior upper section 262.In some embodiments, the amount and/or degree of roughening can dependupon the intended use for the valve member. Generally, the more timethat a valve member will remain in an opened position without returningto a closed position, the greater the amount and/or degree of rougheningdesired. Greater roughening can limit friction between the valve memberand the internal projection, which can help allow the valve member toreturn to a closed position after remaining in an opened position for aperiod of time. In some embodiments, in addition to or as an alternativeto providing greater roughening to limit the friction between the valvemember and the internal projection, the valve member can be configuredto fit around the internal projection with varying degrees of tightness.This is described in more detail below. Surface roughenings can alsotrap oil or other lubricant between the inner surface of the valvemember and the internal projection to facilitate movement of the valvemember relative to the internal projection. In some embodiments, oil orother lubricant can fill any available space between the surfaceroughenings and the internal projection. This can help resist seepage ofblood between the projection and the valve member.

In some embodiments, surface roughenings 268, such as scallops, cancompress when pressed against the internal projection member. This canoccur when the valve member 200 is in an open position and/or when thevalve member is in a closed position. In some embodiments, thecompression of the roughenings can be small enough to limit distortionof the roughenings as they move along the spike when a medical implementis attached to or removed from a medical connector, as illustrated inFIG. 14. In some embodiments, the compression of the roughenings canalso be small enough to help prevent the roughenings from catching onthe projection member 170, such as openings 180. In some embodiments,the roughenings can compress a distance greater than or equal toapproximately 0.0005 inches and/or less than or equal to approximately0.002 inches. In some embodiments, the roughenings can compress adistance greater than or equal to approximately 0.0005 inches and/orless than or equal to approximately 0.0015 inches. In some embodiments,the roughenings can compress a distance greater than or equal toapproximately 0.0008 inches and/or less than or equal to approximately0.0012 inches. In some embodiments, the roughenings can compress adistance approximately equal to 0.001 inches.

In some embodiments, the amount a surface roughening compresses can bemeasured as a ratio of its width w₂, described above with respect toFIG. 11P, to the amount it compresses. In some embodiments, the ratio ofthe width w₂ to the amount of surface roughening compression can begreater than or equal to approximately 10 and/or less than or equal toapproximately 60. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w₂ to theamount of surface roughening compression can be greater than or equal toapproximately 20 and/or less than or equal to approximately 60. In someembodiments, the ratio of the width w₂ to the amount of surfaceroughening compression can be greater than or equal to approximately 30and/or less than or equal to approximately 50. In some embodiments, theratio of the width w₂ to the amount of surface roughening compressioncan be greater than or equal to approximately 40 and/or less than orequal to approximately 50. In some embodiments the ratio can beapproximately 45.

In some embodiments, the various amounts and ratios of compressionreflect the compression that naturally occurs by positioning the valvemember 200 around the internal projection member 170. For ease ofreference, this will be referred to as interference compression. In someembodiments, the amounts and ratios of compression described reflect theinterference compression in combination with the compression from theforce provided by the interaction of the shoulder 220 of the valvemember and the shoulder 155 in an interior of the needleless connector,as described above. In some embodiments, the interference compression issufficient to prevent undesirable fluid from collecting in an interiorupper section 262 of the valve member. In some embodiments, theinterference compression alone is insufficient to prevent fluid fromcollecting. In other words, in some embodiments the surface rougheningsare such that the valve member 200 when positioned around the internalprojection member 170 does not by itself create a seal strong enough toblock backflow from passing between the valve member and the projectionmember at operating pressures. This can help minimize friction betweenthe valve member and the projection member. In such embodiments, asshown in the drawings, additional force from other interactions with thevalve member, such as between shoulder 220 and shoulder 155, can berelied upon to help create a seal between the valve member and theprojection member that prevents backflow between the internal projectionmember and the valve at operating pressures.

In some embodiments, for example, the interference compression preventsbackflow only below pressures of approximately 30 psi. In someembodiments, the interference compression prevents backflow only belowpressures of approximately 20 psi. In some embodiments, the interferencecompression prevents backflow only below pressures of approximately 15psi. In some embodiments, the interference compression prevents backflowonly below pressures of approximately 10 psi. In some embodiments, theinterference compression prevents backflow only below pressures ofapproximately 7 psi. In some embodiments, the interference compressionprevents backflow only below pressures of approximately 5 psi. In someembodiments, the interference compression prevents backflow only belowpressures of approximately 3 psi. In some embodiments, the interferencecompression prevents backflow only below pressures of approximately 1psi. In some embodiments, the interference compression does not preventbackflow at pressures above approximately zero psi.

In some embodiments, the interference compression is limited because ofa relative similarity between a minimum inner diameter of surfaceroughenings 268 on the valve member and a corresponding outer diameterof the projection member 170 when the valve member is in the closedposition. For example, in some embodiments the difference between aminimum inner diameter of a surface roughening, such as a scallop, andan outer diameter of the projection member where it contacts the surfaceroughening can be less than or equal to approximately 0.010 inches. Insome embodiments, the difference can be less than or equal toapproximately 0.008 inches. In some embodiments, the difference can beless than or equal to approximately 0.006 inches. In some embodiments,the difference can be less than or equal to approximately 0.004 inches.In some embodiments, the difference can be less than or equal toapproximately 0.002 inches.

In some embodiments, the minimum inner diameter of surface roughenings268 can be compared to the outer diameter of the projection member 170at the top 184 of the openings 180 in the projection member. Thedifference between the minimum inner diameter of the surface rougheningsand the outer diameter of the projection member at the top of theopenings can vary in different embodiments in the same manner asdescribed above. For example, in various embodiments, the difference canbe less than or equal to approximately 0.010 inches, less than or equalto approximately 0.008 inches, less than or equal to approximately 0.006inches, less than or equal to approximately 0.004 inches, or less thanor equal to approximately 0.002 inches. This difference can affect theamount of backflow pressure that the valve member can resist. It canalso affect the interference compression.

In some embodiments, the minimum inner diameter of surface roughening268 can be compared to the thickness t₁ of the base 210. For example, insome embodiments the ratio of the thickness t₁ to the minimum innerdiameter can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.5 and/or lessthan or equal to approximately 1.5. In some embodiments the ratio of thethickness t₁ to the minimum inner diameter can be greater than or equalto approximately 1 and/or less than or equal to approximately 2. In someembodiments the ratio of the thickness t₁ to the minimum inner diametercan be greater than or equal to approximately 1.5 and/or less than orequal to approximately 2.5. In some embodiments the ratio of thethickness t₁ to the minimum inner diameter can be greater than or equalto approximately 1.75 and/or less than or equal to approximately 2.25.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 21A through 22D and asdiscussed above, valve members 200 can have external seals 236 to helpprevent blood from collecting between the valve member and the body 120of the needleless connector if a seal between the tip 310 of a medicalimplement and the top of the valve member breaks. In some embodiments,the outer diameter OD₁ of the seal 236 (illustrated in FIGS. 11K and11M) can be greater than the inner diameter ID₁ of the connector body120 at the top of the body (illustrated in FIG. 10) or where the seal236 aligns with the connector body in the closed position. Thus, whenthe valve member is positioned within the body 120, an interference canexist between the body and the seal 236 such that the seal is compressedinward, sealing against the body. If blood or other fluid flows onto thetop of the valve member, most or all of the blood or other fluid willremain there and not flow past the seal 236. In some embodiments, theouter diameter OD₁ of the seal 236 can be greater than the innerdiameter ID₁ of the connector body 120 where the seal aligns with theconnector body in the open position. In some embodiments, aninterference can exist between the body and the seal across the completerange of motion of the valve member.

The relative dimensions of the outer diameter OD₁ of the seal 236 andthe inner diameter ID₁ of the connecter body where the seal 236 contactsthe connector body can affect how tight of a seal is formed between theseal 236 and the connector body 120. The dimensions can also affect theamount of friction between the seal 236 and the connector body, whichaffects how easily the valve member 200 transitions to and from the openand closed positions. In some embodiments, the outer diameter OD₁ can bebetween approximately one and approximately 20 thousandths of an inchgreater than the inner diameter ID₁. In some embodiments, the outerdiameter OD₁ can be between approximately one and approximately 10thousandths of an inch greater than the inner diameter ID₁. In someembodiments, the outer diameter OD₁ can be between approximately two andapproximately eight thousandths of an inch greater than the innerdiameter ID₁. In some embodiments, the difference between the outerdiameter and the inner diameter can be less than approximately onethousandths of an inch or greater than approximately 20 thousandths ofan inch.

In some embodiments, the outer diameter OD₁ of the seal 236 can bevarying percentages larger than the inner diameter ID₁ of the connectorbody. For example, in some embodiments the outer diameter OD₁ can bebetween approximately 0.5% and approximately 15% larger than the innerdiameter ID₁. In some embodiments the outer diameter OD₁ can be betweenapproximately 1% and approximately 10% larger than the inner diameterID₁. In some embodiments the outer diameter OD₁ can be betweenapproximately 2% and approximately 5% larger than the inner diameterID₁. In some embodiments the outer diameter OD₁ can be between less thanapproximately 1% or greater than approximately 15% larger than the innerdiameter ID₁. The relative dimensions of the inner diameter ID₁ andouter diameter OD₁ described herein are with respect to the componentsof a medical connector before it is fully assembled. Additionally, invarious embodiments the relative dimensions provided can refer to theouter diameter where the seal 236 aligns with the connector body in theopen position, where the seal aligns with the connector body in theclosed position, or where the seal aligns with the connector body in anyor all positions between the open and the closed position.

In some embodiments, in addition to providing a seal to prevent blood orother fluids from flowing between the valve member 200 and connectorbody 120, a seal 236 can act to wipe some or all of any fluids thataccumulate along the interior walls of the upper portion 128 of theneedleless connector body. The seal 236 can wipe the interior walls asthe valve member moves from an open to a closed position. Any fluids canthen be cleaned by swabbing and/or disinfecting the top of the valvemember. In some embodiments, a seal 236 with a tip 238, such as that ofFIGS. 11M and 11N and FIGS. 22A through 22D, can be particularlyeffective at wiping any fluid from the interior walls of the upperportion of the connector body.

In some embodiments, it can be preferable to have a constantinterference between the seal 236 and the connector body 120. This canhelp ensure a consistent seal, wiping, and/or a consistent amount offriction between the seal and body. FIGS. 22C and 22D illustrate oneembodiment of a medical connector 100 that has the valve member 200 ofFIGS. 22A and 22B, but that has a connector body 120 with an upperportion 128 having a constant inner diameter. In various embodiments, aconnector body with an upper portion 128 having a constant innerdiameter can be used with any valve member described herein and anycombination of elements described herein.

As described above, in various embodiments a seal 236 can be located atdifferent positions relative to the connector body 120 when the valvemember is in a closed position. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 21Aand 21B, in some embodiments the seal can be located below a top surfaceof the connector body. In contrast, in some embodiments, as illustratedin FIGS. 22A through 22D, a tip 238 of the seal can be generally flushwith a top of the connector body. Preferably, a seal is close enough tothe top such that a care provider can disinfect the top of the seal byswabbing across the top of the connector. In some embodiments, theinteraction between the shoulders 220 of the valve members and shoulders155 of the connector body 120 can help ensure that the seal 236 does notmove out of position within the connector body. In various embodiments,any of the valve members described herein can include seals 236 asdescribed.

In various embodiments, the flow path of diverted fluid and/or the fluiddiverter 42 itself can reach different heights within the needlelessconnector 100. In various embodiments, the flow path of diverted fluidand/or the distal tip 48 of the fluid diverter can be defined withrespect to a height h₃ of the interior 280 of the projection 170,measured from the opening 290 at the bottom of the internal projectionmember 170 to the distal most surface 283 of the interior 280 of theprojection 170. The flow path and/or the top of the fluid diverter canalso or alternatively be defined with respect to a height h₄ of theconnector 100, measured from the bottom surface 168 of the connector 100to the distal surface 129 of the connector body 120, or a height h₇ ofthe shoulder or collar 132 measured from the bottom surface 168 to a topof the shoulder 132.

In some embodiments, the fluid diverter 42 directs fluid and/or thefluid diverter 42 extends a substantial distance into the connector 100.In some embodiments, a substantial distance can be further into themedical connector than the collar 190. In some embodiments, asubstantial distance can be further into the medical connector than thebase section 160 extends away from the connecting portion. In someembodiments, a substantial distance can be any distance identifiedbelow. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter 42 directs fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 42 extends into the distal about two thirds of theheight h₄ of the connector 100. In some embodiments, the fluid diverterdirects fluid and/or the fluid diverter 42 extends into the distal aboutone half of the height h₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, thefluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 42 extends intothe distal about one third of the height h₄ of the connector. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter42 extends into the distal about one quarter of the height h₄ of theconnector.

In some embodiments, the fluid diverter can similarly divert fluidand/or the fluid diverter 42 extends into the distal about two thirds ofthe height h₃ of the interior 280 of the projection 170 or of the heighth₇ of the shoulder or collar 132. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can similarly divert fluid and/or the fluid diverter 42 extendsinto the distal about one half of the height h₃ or of the height h₇. Insome embodiments, the fluid diverter can similarly divert fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 42 extends into the distal about one third of theheight h₃ or of the height h₇. In some embodiments, the fluid divertercan similarly divert fluid and/or the fluid diverter 42 extends into thedistal about three sixteenths of the height h₃ or of the height h₇. Insome embodiments, the fluid diverter can similarly divert fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 42 extends into the distal about one eighth of theheight h₃ or of the height h₇. In some embodiments, the fluid divertercan similarly divert fluid and/or the fluid diverter 42 extends into thedistal about one sixteenth of the height h₃ or of the height h₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter42 extends into the opening section 284 of the projection interior. Insome embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid into the distal mostsection 282 of the projection interior and/or to a position distal tothe shoulder or collar 132.

The height h₅ of the fluid diverter 42 within the interior projectionmember 170 can also be defined, and can impact how effectively theneedleless connector can be flushed by fluid passing through thestopcock. The height h₅ of the fluid diverter 42 can be measured fromthe opening 290 at the bottom of the internal projection member 170 tothe upper or distal tip 48 of the fluid diverter. In some embodiments,the height h₅ of the fluid diverter can be at least about 50 percent ofthe height h₃ of the interior 280 of the projection 170. In someembodiments, the height h₅ can be at least about 70 percent of theheight h₃. In some embodiments, the height h₅ can be at least about 75percent of the height h₃. In some embodiments, the height h₅ can be atleast about 80 percent of the height h₃. In some embodiments, the heighth₅ can be at least about 85 percent of the height h₃. In someembodiments, the height h₅ can be at least about 90 percent of theheight h₃. In some embodiments, the height h₅ can be at least about 95percent of the height h₃.

In some embodiments, the height of the fluid diverter 42 can be definedrelative the openings 180 of the projection 170. For example, in someembodiments, the upper tip can be level with, or approximately levelwith, the bottom of the openings 180. In some embodiments the upper tip48 of the fluid diverter 42 can extend past the bottom 182 of theopenings 180. In some embodiments, the upper tip of the fluid divertercan extend past the bottom 182 of the openings 180 a distance that is atleast about 5 percent of the distance from the bottom 182 of theopenings 180 to the top 184 of the openings 180. In some embodiments,the upper tip of the fluid diverter can extend past the bottom 182 ofthe openings 180 a distance that is at least about 10 percent of thedistance from the bottom 182 of the openings 180 to the top 184 of theopenings 180. In some embodiments, the upper tip of the fluid divertercan extend past the bottom 182 of the openings 180 a distance that is atleast about 20 percent of the distance from the bottom 182 of theopenings 180 to the top 184 of the openings 180. In some embodiments,the upper tip of the fluid diverter can extend past the bottom 182 ofthe openings 180 a distance that is at least about 30 percent of thedistance from the bottom 182 of the openings 180 to the top 184 of theopenings 180.

In some embodiments, the upper tip 48 does not extend all the way to thebottom of the openings 180. In some embodiments, the upper tip canextend at least about 40 percent of the way up a height h₆ from theopening 290 near the bottom of the needleless connector base 160 to thebottom 182 of the openings 180 in the projection 170. In someembodiments, the upper tip can extend at least about 60 percent of theway up the height h₆. In some embodiments, the upper tip can extend atleast about 70 percent of the way up the height h₆. In some embodiments,the upper tip can extend at least about 85 percent of the way up theheight h₆. In some embodiments, the upper tip can extend at least about90 percent of the way up the height h₆. In some embodiments, the uppertip can extend at least about 95 percent of the way up the height h₆.

The available volume of space within the projection member 170 can alsoimpact how effectively the needleless connector can be flushed by fluidpassing through the stopcock. Generally, the less volume that needs tobe flushed, the more efficiently and the more easily flushing can occur.This available volume can also be referred to as the priming volume.When the connector has been primed with a fluid, the volume within theconnector has been filled with the fluid to the extent it receivesfluid.

In some embodiments, it can be preferable to have a volume of availablespace within the projection member 170 that is greater than or equal toapproximately 0.005 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.03mL. In some embodiments, the available volume can be greater than orequal to approximately 0.01 mL and/or less than or equal toapproximately 0.02 mL. In some embodiments, the available volume can begreater than or equal to approximately 0.013 mL and/or less than orequal to approximately 0.017 mL. In some embodiments, the availablevolume can be approximately 0.015 mL.

In some embodiments, the volume of the fluid diverter 42 within theprojection member 170 can vary, thereby affecting the available volumewithin the fluid diverter. In some embodiments, the fluid divertervolume within the projection member can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.002 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.03mL. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter volume within the projectionmember can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.004 mL and/orless than or equal to approximately 0.025 mL. In some embodiments, thefluid diverter volume within the projection member can be greater thanor equal to approximately 0.006 mL and/or less than or equal toapproximately 0.02 mL. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter volumewithin the projection member can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.007 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.015mL. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter volume within the projectionmember can be approximately 0.009 mL.

As illustrated in FIGS. 16B and 17B and as discussed above, in someembodiments the profile of the fluid diverter 42 can be sized and shapedto track the internal profile of the projection body 174. In someembodiments, all or a substantial portion of the fluid diverter tracksthe internal profile of the projection body, while in some embodimentsonly a portion of the fluid diverter does so. In some embodiments, thefluid diverter can be configured to touch and/or be immediately adjacentan interior wall 175 of the projection body. Thus, the fluid divertercan bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least a portion of theinterior 280 of the projection member 170. This can prevent or minimizefluid flow past the fluid diverter, forcing all or the majority of fluidthat has been diverted to flow over the upper tip 48 of the fluiddiverter. This can provide for a more complete flushing of theneedleless connector.

In some embodiments, the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about one third of the height h₃ of theinterior of the projection (illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 17A). In someembodiments, the diverter can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcateat least about one half of the height h₃. In some embodiments, thediverter can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about twothirds of the height h₃. In some embodiments, the diverter can bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate at least about three quarters of theheight h₃. In some embodiments, the diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about seven eighths of the height h₃.

Similarly, the amount of bifurcation or substantial bifurcation can bedescribed with respect to the height h₇ of the shoulder or collar 132(illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 17A). In some embodiments the diverter 42can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about one half ofthe height h₇. In some embodiments the diverter 42 can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about one half of the height h₇. Insome embodiments the diverter 42 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 60 percent of the height h₇. In someembodiments the diverter 42 can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcateat least about 70 percent of the height h₇. In some embodiments thediverter 42 can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about80 percent of the height h₇. In some embodiments the diverter 42 canbifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about 90 percent ofthe height h₇. In some embodiments the diverter 42 can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about 95 percent of the height h₇. Insome embodiments the entire height h₇ of the shoulder or collar can bebifurcated or substantially bifurcated, and in some embodimentsbifurcation can extend distal to the shoulder or collar 132.

In some embodiments, a first part of the fluid diverter can bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate a section of the interior 280 of theprojection member 170, and a second part of the fluid diverter can befar enough removed from a wall defining the interior such that thesecond part does not bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate theinterior. Such embodiments can allow for flexibility in configuring aconnector to provide desired flushing characteristics and have a desiredpriming volume. In some embodiments, the proximal about 50 percent ofthe fluid diverter can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate theinterior 280 of the projection member 170. In some embodiments, theproximal about 60 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior 280. In some embodiments, theproximal about 70 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior 280. In some embodiments, theproximal about 80 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior 280. In some embodiments, theproximal about 90 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior 280. In some embodiments, theproximal about 95 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior 280. In some embodiments, theproximal about 98 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior 280.

The embodiments of access ports and connectors described herein can beused in a variety of systems. FIG. 23 illustrates a block diagram of onepossible system configuration. A medical connector 420 can connect to apatient 430 or other fluid source via a line 450. The medical connectorcan encompass any of the connector embodiments described herein. Forexample, in some embodiments the medical connector can be a three-portstopcock with a needleless connector attached to or formed with oneport. In some embodiments, the medical connector can be an embodiment ofa needleless connector described herein that is not on a stopcock buthas a first end attached to line 450 and a second end attached to line440.

Line 440 can connect the medical connector 420 to a medical instrument410. The medical instrument can be a medication distribution module,such as an IV bag; it can be a measurement device or system, such as apressure monitor; or it can be any device or combination of devices usedas part of a medical procedure or practice that can connect to apatient.

FIG. 24 illustrates a block diagram of a system configuration where aneedleless access port 510 connects via line 530 to a patient 520. Theneedleless access port can be an embodiment of a needleless connectordescribed herein, whether connected to a stopcock or not. The accessport can have one end attached to the line 530, and a second endconfigured to connect to a medical implement. As described above, theconnections to the access port can conform with any ANSI standard, or insome embodiments can be non-standard.

FIG. 25 illustrates a block diagram of two embodiments of a medicalfluid flow system. In a first embodiment, a fluid flow line 670 canconnect a patient 610 with a stopcock with needleless connector 620 overa fluid diverter, such as the various connectors and stopcocks describedherein. The stopcock and needleless connector can connect to a plungingdevice 630. In some embodiments a plunging device can attach to theline, such as with an additional stopcock. In some embodiments aplunging device can be inline, such as an inline syringe. An inlinesyringe can have a channel that allows fluid to flow through it, and itcan also have a plunger oriented to draw fluid from the line connectedto the stopcock. One example of an inline syringe that can be used isthe SafeSet™ blood sampling syringe, produced by ICU Medical.

The syringe 630 can then connect to an on/off device 640 capable ofrestricting the flow of fluid through the flow line 670, such as atwo-way stopcock, a roller clamp, or other device. The on/off device canthen connect to a fluid source 650, such as an IV drip, pressure bag, orother source. In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated, anadditional on/off device 660 can be positioned between the stopcock withneedleless connector 620 and the inline syringe 630. In someembodiments, other system elements can be positioned within the fluidflow system. For example, in some embodiments additional stopcocks canbe included within the system to provide additional points of accessinto the line. In some embodiments, pressure measurement or monitoringsystems can be connected to the line. This can include, for example, aTranspac® IV disposable pressure transducer, produced by ICU Medical.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating a method used with the systemillustrated in FIG. 25 to withdraw a sample of blood. The stopcock witha fluid diverter and needleless connector 620 is first primed withwhatever fluid is within the fluid source 650 and a line is introducedinto or connected to a line into a patient. The stopcock can be in afirst position such that all ports are in fluid communication, and theavailable volume of the stopcock and needleless connector 620 is filledwith the fluid of the fluid source as the fluid is delivered to apatient 610. In a first step 720, fluid flow is blocked between thefluid source 650 and the stopcock with needleless connector 620. Thiscan be achieved, for example, by closing an on/off device 640,preferably one that is positioned upstream of the inline syringe 630.

In a second step 730, the stopcock and needleless connector 620 areprimed with blood. In some embodiments, this can be achieved with aninline syringe 630, which can be drawn to create a negative pressure,pulling the fluid from the patient into the syringe, or a mixture ofblood and fluid into the syringe. In some embodiments this can be donewith a syringe attached to the line through other means, such as anadditional stopcock. The negative pressure of the syringe will also drawblood from the patient 610 into the stopcock with needleless connector620, from where a blood sample can be drawn.

In order to obtain a clean and accurate blood sample, the stopcock andneedleless connector is preferably filled only with the patient's bloodand does not have any residual fluid from the fluid source 650. A numberof features described herein can help ensure that the blood in thestopcock with needleless connector is not mixed with fluid. For example,a fluid diverter as described herein can ensure that any fluid in theneedleless connector is properly flushed with blood. Additionally, theminimal priming volume of the needleless connector can help ensure thatthe syringe 630 is able to draw enough fluid to pull blood from thepatient all the way through the needleless connector.

Once the stopcock and needleless connector 620 have been filled withblood, in a third step 740, the stopcock can be moved to a secondposition that blocks fluid communication between the stopcock and theinline syringe. For example, the stopcock can be moved from a firstposition to a second position such as the position illustrated in FIG.4B. In some embodiments, a separate on/off device, such as the device660, can be used to block fluid communication between the stopcock andthe syringe. Once communication has been blocked between the syringe andthe stopcock, in a fourth step 750 a medical implement can connect tothe needleless connector of the stopcock and withdraw a blood sample.

Once a sample has been drawn, in a fifth step 760 a fluid connection canbe resumed between the stopcock and the inline connector. This can bedone, for example, by returning the stopcock to the first position. Inan optional sixth step 770, the syringe can be plunged to reinfuse thedrawn fluid and/or blood into the fluid flow system. In a seventh step780, fluid flow be can reopened between the fluid source 650 and thestopcock with needleless connector 620. In an eighth step 790, thestopcock with needleless connector can be flushed with the fluid fromthe fluid source, which flushes out any blood remaining in the stopcockwith needleless connector. In some embodiments, once fluid flow has beenreopened between the fluid source and the stopcock, the stopcock can beflushed with fluid from the fluid source in less than about 5 seconds.In some embodiments, the stopcock can be flushed in less than about 10seconds.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram illustrating a method used with a medicalfluid flow system. The method can be used with any fluid flow systemthat has a stopcock and a pressure measurement device. This can includebut is not limited to the system of FIG. 23 and the system of FIG. 25with a pressure measurement device attached to the fluid flow line. Thestopcock can be in a first position with all ports in fluidcommunication and a fluid can flow through the stopcock to a patient. Ina first step 820, the stopcock can be moved from a first position to afourth position, such as the position illustrated in FIG. 4D. This cancreate a generally straight flow path through the stopcock, minimizingangles that can affect the pressure measurement. This can also limitcontact of the flow path with resilient materials, such as the valvemember of the stopcock, which can also affect the pressure measurement.In a second step 830, a pressure measurement is taken. In a third step840, the stopcock is returned to the first position.

A variety of needleless connectors can be used with the devices andsystems described herein. When used with a stopcock with a fluiddiverter, the fluid diverter can be sized to fit within the connector asdescribed above. For example, in some embodiments the fluid diverter canhave a profile adapted to track the internal profile of the connector.In some embodiments, the fluid diverter can also have a volume designedto partially fill the connector and provide a desired priming volume foruse in various systems described herein.

As an example, FIG. 28 is a side view of a stopcock assembly 1010 with aneedleless connector 1100 that can have some features or characteristicssimilar in some regards to the Swabable Valve available fromHalkey-Roberts Corporation of St. Petersburg, Fla. Some features andcharacteristics of the connector 1100 are described in U.S. Pat. No.6,651,956, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by referenceherein for all that it discloses. The stopcock can function according tothe various embodiments described herein, and elements similar toelements described in such embodiments are understood to be able tofunction as thus described, whether called out or not. For example, thesecond port 1030 is illustrated without a luer lock, but in someembodiments it can include a luer lock as described above.

FIG. 29A is a sectional view of the connector 1100 shown in FIG. 28, andFIG. 29B is a sectional view rotated approximately 90 degrees from theview of FIG. 29A. In some embodiments, the connector 1100 can include abody member 1120 with a lower or proximal portion 1124 and an upper ordistal portion 1128. The body can also include a shoulder 1132. Theconnector can further include a valve member 1200. As described above,the needleless connector can be positioned on a port 1040 of a stopcockwith a fluid diverter 1042 that extends into the connector.

The fluid diverter 1042 can be positioned according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. As an example, the connector 1100can have a height h₁₀₄, which can be measured from a most proximalsurface 1168 of the connector to a top or distal most surface of theconnector. As a further example, the fluid diverter 1042 can directfluid and/or the fluid diverter can extend into the distal about twothirds of the height h₁₀₄ of the connector 1100. In some embodiments,the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 1042 extendsa substantial distance into the connector 1100. In some embodiments, asubstantial distance can be any distance identified below. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter 1042 directs fluid and/or the fluiddiverter 1042 extends into the distal about one half of the height h₁₀₄of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluidand/or the fluid diverter 1042 extends into the distal about one thirdof the height h₁₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 1042 extends into thedistal about one quarter of the height h₁₀₄ of the connector. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter1042 extends into the distal about three sixteenths of the height h₁₀₄of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluidand/or the fluid diverter 1042 extends into the distal about one eighthof the height h₁₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 1042 extends into thedistal about one sixteenth of the height h₁₀₄ of the connector.

Similarly, the connector 1100 can have a shoulder height h₁₀₇ measuredfrom the most proximal surface 1168 of the connector to the shoulder1132. In some embodiments, as illustrated, a distal tip 1048 of thefluid diverter 1042 can extend distal to the shoulder 1132. In someembodiments, the distal tip can be at or proximal to the shoulder. Insome embodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extendinto the distal about two thirds of the shoulder height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one half of the shoulder height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one third of the shoulder height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one quarter of the shoulder height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about three sixteenths of the shoulder height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one eighth of the shoulder height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one sixteenth of the shoulder height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, as illustrated, the distal tip 1048 of the fluid diverter1042 can extend beyond the shoulder height.

The fluid diverter 1042 can also be sized according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. Thus, for example, the divertercan be sized such that the connector 1100 has a desired available volumethat receives fluid when flushed. This can be achieved by adjusting thewidth of the diverter in the plane of FIG. 29A, adjusting the width inthe plane of FIG. 29B, and/or by adjusting the height of the diverter.In some embodiments, the volume of available space that receives fluidwhen flushed can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.005 mLand/or less than or equal to approximately 0.03 mL. In some embodiments,the available volume can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.01mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.02 mL. In someembodiments, the available volume can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.013 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.017mL. In some embodiments, the available volume can be approximately 0.015mL.

As a further example, the diverter 1042 can be configured to bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate at least a portion of an interior of theconnector and/or at least a portion of the valve member 1200. The amountof the connector that is bifurcated or substantially bifurcated can bedefined according to various heights as described herein. For example,in some embodiments the diverter can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about one half of the height h₁₀₃ of the interior ofthe connector, which can be measured from an opening 1290 at the bottomof the connector to the distal most surface of the interior of the valvemember 1200. In some embodiments the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about two thirds of the height h₁₀₃. Insome embodiments the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about three quarters of the height h₁₀₃. In someembodiments the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about seven eighths of the height h₁₀₃.

Similarly, the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about one half of the height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 60 percent of the height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 70 percent of the height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 80 percent of the height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 90 percent of the height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 1042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 95 percent of the height h₁₀₇. In someembodiments the entire height of the shoulder or collar can bebifurcated or substantially bifurcated, and in some embodimentsbifurcation can extend distal to the shoulder or collar 1132, asillustrated.

FIG. 30 is a side view of a stopcock assembly 2010 with a needlelessconnector 2100 that can have some features or characteristics similar insome regards to the SmartSite™ connector available from Cardinal Health,Inc. of Dublin, Ohio. Some features and characteristics of the connector2100 are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,346, the entirety of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein for all that it discloses. Thestopcock can function according to the various embodiments describedherein, and elements similar to elements described in such embodimentsare understood to be able to function as thus described, whether calledout or not.

FIG. 31A is a sectional view of the connector 2100 shown in FIG. 30, andFIG. 31B is a sectional view rotated approximately 90 degrees from theview of FIG. 31A. In some embodiments, the connector 2100 can include abody 2120 with a lower member 2124, an upper member 2128, and a shoulder2132. The connector can further include a valve member 2200. In someembodiments the valve member can be positioned over a cannula 2170. Asdescribed above, the needleless connector can be positioned on a port2040 of a stopcock with a fluid diverter 2042 that extends into theconnector.

The fluid diverter 2042 can be positioned according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. As an example, the connector 2100can have a height h₂₀₄, which can be measured from a most proximalsurface 2168 of the connector to a top or distal most surface of theconnector body 2120. The fluid diverter can also be positioned withrespect to a shoulder height h₂₀₇, measured from the most proximalsurface 2168 of the connector to the shoulder 2132. In some embodimentsthe fluid diverter 2042 can direct fluid and/or the fluid diverterextends a substantial distance into the connector 2100. In someembodiments, a substantial distance can be any distance identifiedbelow. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter 2042 directs fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 2042 extends into the distal about two thirds of theheight h₂₀₄ of the connector 2100. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 2042 extends into thedistal about one half of the height h₂₀₄ of the connector. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter2042 extends into the distal about one third of the height h₂₀₄ of theconnector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 2042 extends into the distal about one quarter of theheight h₂₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverterdirects fluid and/or the fluid diverter 2042 extends into the distalabout three sixteenths of the height h₂₀₄ of the connector. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter2042 extends into the distal about one eighth of the height h₂₀₄ of theconnector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 2042 extends into the distal about one sixteenth ofthe height h₂₀₄ of the connector.

As a further example of fluid diverter 2042 being positioned accordingto various embodiments described herein, in some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid into and/or extend into the distal about twothirds of the shoulder height h₂₀₇. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid into and/or extend into the distal about onehalf of the shoulder height h₂₀₇. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid into and/or extend into the distal about onethird of the shoulder height h₂₀₇. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid into and/or extend into the distal about onequarter of the shoulder height h₂₀₇. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid into and/or extend into the distal about threesixteenths of the shoulder height h₂₀₇. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid into and/or extend into the distal about oneeighth of the shoulder height h₂₀₇. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid into and/or extend into the distal about onesixteenth of the shoulder height h₂₀₇. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter 1042 can extend to approximately the shoulder 2132 or beyondthe shoulder.

The fluid diverter 2042 can also be sized according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. Thus, for example, the divertercan be sized such that the connector 2100 has a desired available volumethat receives fluid when flushed, as described above, such as byadjusting the diverter width in the plane of FIG. 31A, adjusting thediverter width in the plane of FIG. 31B, and/or by adjusting the heightof the diverter. In some embodiments, the volume of available space thatreceives fluid when flushed can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.005 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.03mL. In some embodiments, the available volume can be greater than orequal to approximately 0.01 mL and/or less than or equal toapproximately 0.02 mL. In some embodiments, the available volume can begreater than or equal to approximately 0.013 mL and/or less than orequal to approximately 0.017 mL. In some embodiments, the availablevolume can be approximately 0.015 mL.

In some embodiments, the diverter 2042 can be configured to bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate at least a portion of an interior of theconnector 2100 and/or at least a portion of the valve member 2200. Theamount of the connector that is bifurcated or substantially bifurcatedcan be defined according to various heights as described herein. Forexample, in some embodiments the diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about one half of the height h₂₀₄ ofthe connector. In some embodiments the diverter 2042 can bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate at least about two thirds of the heighth₂₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments the diverter 2042 canbifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about three quartersof the height h₂₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments the diverter2042 can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about seveneighths of the height h₂₀₄ of the connector.

Similarly, in some embodiments the diverter 2042 can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about one half of the height h₂₀₇. Insome embodiments, the diverter 2042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 60 percent of the height h₂₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 2042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 70 percent of the height h₂₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 2042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 80 percent of the height h₂₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 2042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 90 percent of the height h₂₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 2042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 95 percent of the height h₂₀₇. In someembodiments the entire height of the shoulder or collar can bebifurcated or substantially bifurcated, and in some embodimentsbifurcation can extend distal to the shoulder or collar 2132.

FIG. 32 is a side view of a stopcock assembly 3010 with a needlelessconnector 3100 that can have some features or characteristics similar insome regards to the Q-Syte™ connector available from Becton, Dickinsonand Company, of Franklin Lakes, N.J. Some features and characteristicsof the connector 3100 are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,366,676, theentirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein for allthat it discloses. The stopcock can function according to the variousembodiments described herein, and elements similar to elements describedin such embodiments are understood to be able to function as thusdescribed, whether called out or not.

FIG. 33A is a sectional view of the connector 3100 shown in FIG. 32, andFIG. 33B is a sectional view rotated approximately 90 degrees from theview of FIG. 33A. In some embodiments, the connector 3100 can include abody member 3120 with a lower or proximal portion 3124 and an upper ordistal portion 3128. The body can also include a shoulder 3132. Theconnector can further include a valve member 3200. As described above,the needleless connector can be positioned on a port 3040 of a stopcockwith a fluid diverter 3042 that extends into the connector.

The fluid diverter 3042 can be positioned according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. As an example, the connector 3100can have a height h₃₀₄, which can be measured from a most proximalsurface 3168 of the connector to a top or distal most surface of theconnector body 3120.

As a further example, the fluid diverter 3042 can direct fluid and/orthe fluid diverter extends into the distal about three quarters of theheight h₃₀₄ of the connector 3100. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 3042 extends asubstantial distance into the connector 3100. In some embodiments, asubstantial distance can be any distance identified below. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter 3042 directs fluid and/or the fluiddiverter 3042 extends into the distal about two thirds of the heighth₃₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directsfluid and/or the fluid diverter 3042 extends into the distal about onehalf of the height h₃₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 3042 extends into thedistal about one third of the height h₃₀₄ of the connector.

The fluid diverter 3042 can be defined with respect to other heights,such as a shoulder height h₃₀₇, measured from a most proximal surface3168 of the connector to the top of a shoulder 3132. In someembodiments, as illustrated, where the diverter does not extend all theway to or into the valve member, the fluid diverter can also be definedwith respect to a valve height h₃₀₈. The valve height h₃₀₈ can bedefined from an opening 3290 at the bottom of the connector to a mostproximal surface of the valve member 3200 or to a most proximal surfaceof the valve member along a longitudinal axis of the connector 3100. Inthe illustrated embodiment these two locations are the same, though insome embodiments they are not.

In some embodiments, the diverter can be sized with respect to theshoulder height h₃₀₇ as described according to various embodimentsdescribed above. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter can beconfigured to direct fluid and/or the fluid diverter extends into thedistal about fifty percent of the height h₃₀₈. In some embodiments, thefluid diverter can direct fluid and/or can extend into the distal about75 percent of the valve height h₃₀₈. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid and/or can extend into the distal about 80percent of the valve height h₃₀₈. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid and/or can extend into the distal about 85percent of the valve height h₃₀₈. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid and/or can extend into the distal about 90percent of the valve height h₃₀₈. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter can direct fluid and/or can extend into the distal about 95percent of the valve height h₃₀₈.

The fluid diverter 3042 can also be sized according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. Thus, for example, the divertercan be sized such that the connector 3100 has a desired available volumethat receives fluid when flushed. For example, this can be done byadjusting the width of the diverter in the plane of FIG. 33A, adjustingthe width of the diverter in the plane of FIG. 33B, and/or adjusting theheight of the diverter. In some embodiments, the volume of availablespace that receives fluid when flushed can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.005 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.03mL. In some embodiments, the volume of available space that receivesfluid when flushed can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.01 mLand/or less than or equal to approximately 0.02 mL. In some embodiments,the volume of available space that receives fluid when flushed can begreater than or equal to approximately 0.013 mL and/or less than orequal to approximately 0.017 mL. In some embodiments, the volume ofavailable space that receives fluid when flushed can be approximately0.015 mL.

In some embodiments the diverter can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about one half of the height h₃₀₇. In someembodiments the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about two thirds of the height h₃₀₇. In someembodiments the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about three quarters of the height h₃₀₇. In someembodiments the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about seven eighths of the height h₃₀₇.

Similarly, in some embodiments the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about two thirds of the height h₃₀₈. Insome embodiments, the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 50 percent of the height h₃₀₈. In someembodiments, the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 60 percent of the height h₃₀₈. In someembodiments, the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 70 percent of the height h₃₀₈. In someembodiments, the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 80 percent of the height h₃₀₈. In someembodiments, the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 90 percent of the height h₃₀₈. In someembodiments, the diverter 3042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 95 percent of the height h₃₀₈.

In some embodiments, the diverter 3042 can be configured to bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate at least a portion of the interior space3280 of the connector 3100. In some embodiments, in order to bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate a portion of the interior space, thediverter 3042 can be wider than it is tall. In some embodiments, theentire height of the diverter can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate the interior space. In some embodiments, as described above,the proximal about 50 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior space 3280. In some embodiments,the proximal about 60 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior space 3280. In some embodiments,the proximal about 70 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior space 3280. In some embodiments,the proximal about 80 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior space 3280. In some embodiments,the proximal about 90 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior space 3280. In some embodiments,the proximal about 95 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior space 3280. In some embodiments,the proximal about 98 percent of the fluid diverter can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate the interior space 3280.

FIG. 34 is a side view of a stopcock assembly 4010 with a needlelessconnector 4100 that can have some features or characteristics similar insome regards to the Posiflow™ connector available from Becton, Dickinsonand Company, of Franklin Lakes, N.J. Some features and characteristicsof the connector 4100 are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,152,900, theentirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein for allthat it discloses. The stopcock can function according to the variousembodiments described herein, and elements similar to elements describedin such embodiments are understood to be able to function as thusdescribed, whether called out or not.

FIG. 35A is a sectional view of the connector 4100 shown in FIG. 34, andFIG. 35B is a sectional view rotated approximately 90 degrees from theview of FIG. 35A. In some embodiments, the connector 4100 can include abody member 4120 with a shoulder 4132. The connector can also include abase section 4160 with an internal projection member 4170, a resilientmember 4126, and a valve member 4200. As described above, the needlelessconnector can be positioned on a port 4040 of a stopcock with a fluiddiverter 4042 that extends into the connector. In some embodiments, asillustrated, the projection member 4170 can have an open distal end. Insome embodiments, the fluid diverter can extend to a position distal tothe internal projection member 4170.

The fluid diverter 4042 can be positioned according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. Thus, it can be positioned asdescribed above with respect to a connector height h₄₀₄, measured from amost proximal surface 4168 of the connector to a top or distal mostsurface of the connector body 4120. For example, in some embodiments thefluid diverter 4042 can direct fluid and/or the fluid diverter extends asubstantial distance into the connector 4100. FIG. 35A illustrates oneembodiment where a substantial distance is further into the connectorthan a base section 4160 extends from the connecting portion. In someembodiments, a substantial distance can be any distance identifiedbelow. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter 4042 directs fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 4042 extends into the distal about two thirds of theheight h₄₀₄ of the connector 4100. In some embodiments, the fluiddiverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 4042 extends into thedistal about one half of the height h₄₀₄ of the connector. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter4042 extends into the distal about one third of the height h₄₀₄ of theconnector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 4042 extends into the distal about one quarter of theheight h₄₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverterdirects fluid and/or the fluid diverter 4042 extends into the distalabout three sixteenths of the height h₄₀₄ of the connector. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter4042 extends into the distal about one eighth of the height h₄₀₄ of theconnector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/orthe fluid diverter 4042 extends into the distal about one sixteenth ofthe height h₄₀₄ of the connector.

The fluid diverter can also be positioned as described above withrespect to a shoulder height h₄₀₇, measured from a most proximal surface4168 of the connector to a shoulder 4132. Thus, for example, in someembodiments, the fluid diverter 4042 can direct fluid into and/or extendinto the distal about two thirds of the shoulder height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one half of the shoulder height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one third of the shoulder height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one quarter of the shoulder height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about three sixteenths of the shoulder height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one eighth of the shoulder height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one sixteenth of the shoulder height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter 4042 can extend to approximately theshoulder 4132 or beyond the shoulder.

The fluid diverter 4042 can also be sized according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein, to displace a desired volumeand/or to bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate a desired portion ofthe projection member 4170. Thus, for example, the diverter can be sizedsuch that the connector 4100 has a desired available volume thatreceives fluid when flushed. For example, this can be done by adjustingthe width of the diverter in the plane of FIG. 35A, adjusting the widthof the diverter in the plane of FIG. 35B, and/or adjusting the height ofthe diverter. In some embodiments, the volume of available space thatreceives fluid when flushed can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.005 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.03mL. In some embodiments, the volume of available space that receivesfluid when flushed can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.01 mLand/or less than or equal to approximately 0.02 mL. In some embodiments,the volume of available space that receives fluid when flushed can begreater than or equal to approximately 0.013 mL and/or less than orequal to approximately 0.017 mL. In some embodiments, the volume ofavailable space that receives fluid when flushed can be approximately0.015 mL.

In some embodiments, the diverter 4042 can be configured to bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate at least a portion of an interior of theconnector 4100. The amount of the connector that is bifurcated orsubstantially bifurcated can be defined according to various heights asdescribed herein. For example, in some embodiments the diverter canbifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about one half of theheight h₄₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments the diverter 4042 canbifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about two thirds ofthe height h₄₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments the diverter 4042can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about threequarters of the height h₄₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments thediverter 4042 can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at leastabout seven eighths of the height h₄₀₄ of the connector.

Similarly, in some embodiments the diverter 4042 can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about one half of the height h₄₀₇. Insome embodiments, the diverter 4042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 60 percent of the height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 4042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 70 percent of the height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 4042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 80 percent of the height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 4042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 90 percent of the height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 4042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 95 percent of the height h₄₀₇. In someembodiments the entire height of the shoulder or collar 4132 can bebifurcated or substantially bifurcated, and in some embodimentsbifurcation can extend distal to the shoulder or collar. In someembodiments, the diverter can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcatethe entire projection member 4170.

FIG. 36 is a side view of a stopcock assembly 5010 with a needlelessconnector 5100 that can have some features or characteristics similar insome regards to the InVision-Plus™ connector available from RyMedTechnologies, Inc., of Franklin, Tenn. Some features and characteristicsof the connector 5100 are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,994,315, theentirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein for allthat it discloses. The stopcock can function according to the variousembodiments described herein, and elements similar to elements describedin such embodiments are understood to be able to function as thusdescribed, whether called out or not.

FIG. 37A is a sectional view of the connector 5100 shown in FIG. 36, andFIG. 37B is a sectional view rotated approximately 90 degrees from theview of FIG. 37A. In some embodiments, the connector 5100 can include abody member 5120, a base member 5160 with an internal projection member5170, a valve member 5200 around the internal projection, a guide member5204, and a septum member 5202. As described above, the needlelessconnector 5100 can be positioned on a port 5040 of a stopcock with afluid diverter 5042 that extends into the connector. In someembodiments, a distal most surface defining an interior 5280 of theprojection member 5170 can be below the shoulder 5132.

The fluid diverter 5042 can be positioned according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. Thus, it can be positioned asdescribed above with respect to a connector height h₅₀₄, measured from amost proximal surface 5168 of the connector to a top or distal mostsurface of the connector body 5120. For example, in some embodiments thefluid diverter 5042 can direct fluid and/or the fluid diverter extends asubstantial distance into the connector 5100. In some embodiments, asubstantial distance can be any distance identified below. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter 5042 directs fluid and/or the fluiddiverter 5042 extends into the distal about two thirds of the heighth₅₀₄ of the connector 5100. In some embodiments, the fluid diverterdirects fluid and/or the fluid diverter 5042 extends into the distalabout one half of the height h₅₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments,the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 5042 extendsinto the distal about one third of the height h₅₀₄ of the connector. Insome embodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluiddiverter 5042 extends into the distal about one quarter of the heighth₅₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, the fluid diverter directsfluid and/or the fluid diverter 5042 extends into the distal about threesixteenths of the height h₅₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments, thefluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter 5042 extends intothe distal about one eighth of the height h₅₀₄ of the connector. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter directs fluid and/or the fluid diverter5042 extends into the distal about one sixteenth of the height h₅₀₄ ofthe connector.

The fluid diverter can also be positioned as described above withrespect to a shoulder height h₅₀₇, measured from a most proximal surface5168 of the connector to a shoulder 5132. Thus, for example, in someembodiments, the fluid diverter 5042 can direct fluid into and/or extendinto the distal about two thirds of the shoulder height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one half of the shoulder height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one third of the shoulder height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one quarter of the shoulder height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about three sixteenths of the shoulder height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one eighth of the shoulder height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter can direct fluid into and/or extend intothe distal about one sixteenth of the shoulder height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the fluid diverter 5042 can extend to approximately theshoulder 5132 or beyond the shoulder.

In some embodiments, the fluid diverter 5042 can extend far enough intothe internal projection 5170 such that the height h₅₀₉ from a distal tipof the diverter to a distal most surface defining an interior 5280 ofthe projection member is less than a width w₅₀₁ of the interior 5280 atthe distal tip 5048 of the fluid diverter. In some embodiments, theinterior can have a generally circular cross-section and the width w₅₀₁can be approximately equal to a diameter of the cross-section. In someembodiments, the interior can have varying cross-sections and the widthcan be defined as the width in the illustrated plane. In someembodiments, the height h₅₀₉ can be less than 100 percent of the widthw₅₀₁. In some embodiments, the height h₅₀₉ can be less than about 90percent of the width w₅₀₁. In some embodiments, the height h₅₀₉ can beless than about 80 percent of the width w₅₀₁. In some embodiments, theheight h₅₀₉ can be less than about 70 percent of the width w₅₀₁. In someembodiments, the height h₅₀₉ can be less than about 60 percent of thewidth w₅₀₁. In some embodiments, the height h₅₀₉ can be less than about50 percent of the width w₅₀₁.

The fluid diverter 5042 can also be sized according to any of thevarious embodiments described herein. Thus, for example, the divertercan be sized to create a desired available volume within the projectionmember 5170, as described above. Thus, for example, the diverter can besized to displace a desired volume by adjusting the width of thediverter in the plane of FIG. 37A, adjusting the width of the diverterin the plane of FIG. 37B, and/or adjusting the height of the diverter.In some embodiments, the volume of available space within the projectionmember 5170 can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.005 mLand/or less than or equal to approximately 0.03 mL. In some embodiments,the available volume can be greater than or equal to approximately 0.01mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.02 mL. In someembodiments, the available volume can be greater than or equal toapproximately 0.013 mL and/or less than or equal to approximately 0.017mL. In some embodiments, the available volume can be approximately 0.015mL.

As a further example, the diverter 5042 can be configured to bifurcateand/or substantially bifurcate at least a portion of an interior of theconnector 5100. The amount of the connector that is bifurcated orsubstantially bifurcated can be defined according to various heights asdescribed herein. For example, in some embodiments the diverter canbifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about one half of theheight h₅₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments the diverter 5042 canbifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about two thirds ofthe height h₅₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments the diverter 5042can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at least about threequarters of the height h₅₀₄ of the connector. In some embodiments thediverter 5042 can bifurcate and/or substantially bifurcate at leastabout seven eighths of the height h₅₀₄ of the connector.

Similarly, in some embodiments the diverter 5042 can bifurcate and/orsubstantially bifurcate at least about one half of the height h₅₀₇. Insome embodiments, the diverter 5042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 60 percent of the height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 5042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 70 percent of the height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 5042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 80 percent of the height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 5042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 90 percent of the height h₅₀₇. In someembodiments, the diverter 5042 can bifurcate and/or substantiallybifurcate at least about 95 percent of the height h₅₀₇.

Although some specific examples have been provided herein, it should beunderstood that a stopcock with a fluid diverter can be incorporatedinto many other connectors than those specifically disclosed herein.Additionally, it is understood that the various examples of divertersize and positioning described with respect to various connectors can beapplied to any of the connectors specifically disclosed herein andconnectors other than those specifically disclosed herein.

The terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” as used hereinrepresent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs adesired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms“approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amountthat is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within lessthan 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of thestated amount.

Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certainpreferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond thespecifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodimentsand/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalentsthereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention havebeen shown and described in detail, other modifications, which arewithin the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those ofskill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplatedthat various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific featuresand aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within thescope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood thatvarious features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can becombined with or substituted for one another in order to form varyingmodes of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope ofthe present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by theparticular disclosed embodiments described above.

Similarly, this method of disclosure is not to be interpreted asreflecting an intention that any claim require more features than areexpressly recited in that claim. Rather, inventive aspects may lie in acombination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosedembodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description arehereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with eachclaim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

What is claimed is:
 1. A three-way stopcock adapted for flushing aneedleless connector on one port of the stopcock, the three-way stopcockcomprising: a stopcock body comprising a first port, a second port, athird port, and a connecting region connecting the first port, thesecond port, and the third port, wherein the third port is positionedbetween the first and second ports; a fluid director positioned at leastpartially within the connecting region, the fluid director configured toselectively place one or more of the first port, the second port, andthe third port in fluid communication with another of the first port,the second port, and the third port; a fluid diverter extending awayfrom the connecting region at the third port and having a proximal endand a distal end positioned further from the third port than theproximal end; and the needleless connector at the third port and atleast partially surrounding the fluid diverter, the needleless connectorcomprising: a connector housing; a compressible seal positioned at leastpartially within the connector housing and having an interior cavity anda slit on a top of the seal that extends through the top and into theinterior cavity; an internal projection member positioned at leastpartially within the compressible seal, the internal projection memberhaving walls that define an internal cavity that encompasses the fluiddiverter, an opening at a proximal end of the internal projectionmember, an interior height from the opening to a most distal surface ofthe walls that define the internal cavity, and at least one distalopening at a distal end of the internal projection member, the at leastone distal opening having a proximal surface and a distal surface;wherein the fluid diverter is adjacent the walls of the internal cavityof the internal projection member to substantially bifurcate theinternal cavity of the internal projection member at the proximal end ofthe internal projection member and wherein the fluid diverter has adistal tip that extends within the internal projection member to atleast the proximal surface of the at least one distal opening and thedistal tip is positioned proximal the distal surface of the at leastdistal opening.
 2. The three-way stopcock of claim 1, wherein the fluiddiverter bifurcates the internal cavity of the internal projectionmember at the proximal end of the internal projection member.
 3. Thethree-way stopcock of claim 1, wherein the fluid diverter substantiallybifurcates at least about half of the internal cavity of the internalprojection member.
 4. The three-way stopcock of claim 3, wherein thefluid diverter substantially bifurcates at least about three quarters ofthe internal cavity of the internal projection member.
 5. The three-waystopcock of claim 1, wherein the compressible seal has a plurality ofsealing rings on an interior surface thereof, the plurality of sealingrings configured to contact and seal against the internal projectionmember.
 6. The three-way stopcock of claim 5, wherein at least onesealing ring of the plurality of sealing rings contacts the internalprojection member above the at least one distal opening and at least onesealing ring of the plurality of sealing rings contacts the internalprojection member below the at least one distal opening.
 7. Thethree-way stopcock of claim 5, wherein a height of the internalprojection member from the distal surface of the at least one distalopening to an upper tip of the internal projection member is greaterthan or equal to a height in the cavity of the compressible seal from anuppermost sealing ring to an uppermost surface of the interior cavity.8. The three-way stopcock of claim 1, wherein the fluid diverter and theinternal projection member are integrally formed.